2 swine flu deaths reported in Andhra Pradesh

 Two swine flu deaths reported in Andhra Pradesh

Hyderabad:Two deaths have been reported in Andhra Pradesh due to swine flu so far while 24 cases were found to be positive, state Health Minister Kamineni Srinivas said today. Swine flu has claimed 26 lives in neighbouring Telangana this season.

Observing that the government has taken various steps to check the spread of the virus, he told reporters in Ongole that the situation is being monitored closely. "24 cases (of swine flu) have come so far in the state and two cases died. Government is taking all steps. We have set up isolation rooms and medicines have been made available. Doctors have been alerted, masks are being supplied and public awareness is being raised. Government is taking steps," he said.

"(Chief Minister) Chandrababu Naidu is enquiring every day and Centre is ready to send a team (for help) the day we want. None need to fear. Temperatures are slowly rising. It (swine flu) may come under control fully once temperatures rise," the minister said. Meanwhile, suspected cases of swine flu have been reported in Anantapur and Visakhapatnam.

Samples for swine flu confirmation are being sent to Hyderabad since no testing facility exists in the state, health officials said.