Rare virus shows up in a Delhi sample

So,when the samples of a 25-year-old person of Uttar Pradesh tested positive for H3 virus,he was administered Tamiflu and sent back home. Sources say so far,about four-five cases of H3 virus have come to the fore since the sample-testing started at airports.

The H3N2 virus had caused a pandemic in Hong Kong (also called Hong Kong flu) in 1968 and 1969 and killed an estimated one million people worldwide. However,its severity has now decreased to a minimum.

“The same would happen to H1N1 in the coming years. Once people develop immunity after pandemics,the severity decreases,” added an epidemiologist. Said Dr V M Katoch,director general,Indian Council of Medical Research: “This virus (H3) is endemic in many countries. In India,however,it is not that widespread. But since it hardly has any complications,there is nothing to worry.”

There was a plan to compile an annual database of seasonal flu infections soon “which would give an idea about the viruses circulating in India and the deaths they cause every year”,said an official.

Meanwhile,the US national who was the only co-passenger of one HINI positive case of Delhi has been traced. “He has gone back to the US. Doctors have examined him,and he did not show any symptoms of the virus,” sources added.

With India reporting 11 cases of H1N1 virus so far,the Cabinet Secretary will hold a review meeting on Wednesday. NICD director Dr Shiv Lal reviewed the situation in Hyderabad,which has reported the maximum number of cases,and briefed the medical staff about safe handling of cases.