Two doctors of Punes Jehangir Nursing Home,where schoolgirl Reeda Shaikh died of swine flu,had attended a May 12 meeting where the public health department had given doctors guidelines for dealing with suspected cases of swine flu. Dr Vikram Padbidhri and Dr Aman Naik had attended the meeting,health authorities said. Health Minister Rajendra Shingne said Jehangir authorities have sent an explanation to the government but Ruby Hall Hospital has not yet replied why it tested for swine flu when it is not authorised. We have asked the Centre to take action against Ruby Hall Hospital since it involves testing for swine flu. The state will deal with Jehangir Nursing Home, said a source from the public health department. Pune police have registered a complaint against both Jehangir and Ruby Hall. On Wednesday,deputy director of health services Dr Pandit Chavan asked the police to investigate and the police will register an FIR after a three-member expert committee submits its report on alleged negligence. The government,having invoked the Epidemic Diseases Act in Pune and Satara districts,is planning to add two more screening centres near Pune. Pune has been in the grip of a panic wave after Reedas death. People with fever,cough and cold have been rushing for swine flu tests,even if they have not come in contact with anyone back from abroad. Until late Tuesday evening,475 to 500 persons had come to Naidu Hospital for tests. Not taking any chances,all private practitioners are sending their patients to Naidu Hospital, said Dr S Dakure,director,health services. Seven additional doctors,nurses and 50 medical social workers have been deployed to examine suspected cases and identify those that need testing.
