Seven persons tested positive for H1N1 influenza on Monday a day the Delhi government met with representatives of private hospitals to increase bed strength in case the number of patients spiralled out of control. The government has issued letters to private hospitals directing them to create well-ventilated isolation wards,with separate air-conditioning,so that they can start admitting patients whenever necessary. Private laboratories will also be tested and allowed to test and screen H1N1 cases soon,sources in the Delhi Health department said. Officials said the Delhi government is keen on private laboratories coming on board soon,so that people willing to pay for the tests can go there. This would reduce the burden on government laboratories testing swabs so far,they added. Delhi Health Secretary J P Singh said,Usually it takes four or five days for NICD to inspect laboratories and give approval so that they can come on board soon. Of the seven persons tested positive on Monday,six are admitted at Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital and another patient is admitted at Lady Hardinge Medical College.
