Amidst the monsoon season, there has been a sharp rise in H1N1 (swine flu) cases in Delhi-NCR. According to data from the National Centre for Disease Control, 1,449 cases of swine flu have been reported in Delhi up to August 12 this year—a six-fold increase compared to last year.
Faced with this surge in swine flu cases, the need is for caution rather than panic. Being aware of key facts about the disease can help individuals better protect themselves and their families.
Why do swine flu patients experience breathing difficulties?
For most people, H1N1 presents like a common flu; however, in some cases, the virus penetrates deep into the lungs. In such instances, the virus causes inflammation in the lung tissues responsible for oxygen exchange in the body, leading to breathing difficulties.
This can result in viral pneumonia and weaken the lungs to such an extent that bacteria can easily invade, causing secondary infections. Both scenarios make breathing difficult.
When does breathing difficulty become a medical emergency?
Do not ignore symptoms such as rapid panting or breathing much faster than normal while simply sitting still—without any physical exertion. Additionally, seek immediate medical attention if you notice symptoms like blue-tinted lips or fingers, chest tightness, confusion, or extreme lethargy. These signs indicate that the body is not receiving adequate oxygen.
What does a drop in oxygen levels signify?
If a pulse oximeter shows an oxygen level below 94%, it indicates that your lungs are failing to deliver sufficient oxygen to the bloodstream. Sometimes, a patient may not feel significant breathing distress, yet the pulse oximeter reading remains low. In such cases, consult a doctor immediately; do not wait for the condition to worsen. Can H1N1 lead to pneumonia and respiratory failure?
In some cases, it can. This infection can progress beyond a standard flu to cause viral pneumonia and, in severe instances, Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS). With ARDS, the lungs become so compromised that a ventilator is required. Therefore, high-risk patients require closer monitoring.
Do all H1N1 patients require oxygen?
Not at all. Most patients recover at home through rest, fluid intake, paracetamol, and—on a doctor's advice—antiviral medications. Oxygen support is needed only for patients who experience a drop in blood oxygen levels.
Who is at the highest risk from swine flu?
Pregnant women, young children, the elderly (aged 65 and above), and individuals with pre-existing conditions—such as asthma, COPD, diabetes, heart disease, obesity, or a weakened immune system—are at the highest risk. If people in these categories exhibit flu-like symptoms, they should consult a doctor without delay.
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