Further health concerns for Commonwealth Games
India has issued a health advisory today for participants of the Commonwealth Games and visitors attending the event, and has asked them to take precautions.
India is suffering from outbreaks of both dengue fever and H1N1 flu, although the Health and Family Welfare Ministry has stated that the influenza activity has peaked. The World Health Organization has
also announced that the H1N1 outbreak has moved into the post-pandemic stage.
Athletes are encouraged to wear long sleeves and pants while staying in India, and they also have devices to plug in while they are in their rooms to kill off any mosquitoes that may have slipped in. They’ve
also been asked to carry their vaccination records, although the H1N1 vaccination is not mandatory.
Reports indicate that there have been over 2,300 deaths caused by the swine flu, and over 41,000 people have tested positive. There have been over 2100 cases of dengue so far in Delhi alone.
Athletes and spectators have been asked to look for symptoms typical to the common cold, and any difficulty in breathing. During the Commonwealth Games they will be given consultation, diagnosis, and treatment
for free.
"Fogging is being carried out in all areas and they say the dengue here is not serious, it is a mild form, and security arrangements are also being addressed," said Malaysia's High Commissioner to India,
Datuk Tan Seng Sung.
While it is considerably painful to contracting dengue fever, there is only a one per cent mortality rate.
New Zealand’s team doctor has stated that it will be up to the athletes to take care of themselves while at the Games by taking the precautions outlined.
English athletes have been told they are free to drop out of the Games should they have any concerns, but to date none of them have.
“We are confident that the games will be held successfully and that all our preparations will be completed well in time,” said India's Foreign Secretary, Nirupama Rao. “Reports of dengue were especially
exaggerated.”
Tags: