As demand for immunity-propping pills to counter H1Ni remains high, city docs stand divided over the need
As demand for immunity-propping pills to counter H1N1 remains high, city docs stand divided over the need
Swine flu panic may have waned, but clinics and hospitals are still finding many takers for immunity pills and syrups that could keep the disease away.
However, doctors across the city are divided over whether popping a pill is necessary or even useful.
Dr Ashok Mahashur, respiratory physician and HOD for the pulmonary department at Hinduja Hospital, has been advising his patients to take a bacterial lysate pill called Ismigen that strengthens the respiratory system.
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"The pill strengthens the mucous membrane and is likely to protect those affected with the virus as well as those at risk of contracting it.
We use it for patients suffering from bronchitis and there's been literature that's recorded its use for the prevention and treatment of the SARS epidemic.
There's no harm in taking it, as it increases antibodies that resist a viral infection," said Mahashur.
Patients are recommended one tablet a day for 10 days and for patients with chronic conditions, the dosage is recommended for three months.
Counter point
However others disagree. "There's too little literature on the current H1N1 virus to safely suggest any drug to build resistance," said Lilavati hospital respiratory physician Dr Jalil Parkar.
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"If anything, it could build a resistance to medication to treat the virus and the patient's health could be compromised if a more virulent strain mutates," he added.
According to Haffkine Institute head Dr Abhay Chowdhury, patients need not panic. "All viruses, from the common cold to this H1N1 virus, are self limiting, with or without medication.
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The virus will die after its gestation period of five to seven days, but complications are only seen in those with suppressed immunity or those who have conditions that have reduced immunity levels.
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The use of such pills may not be necessary except in chronic cases," he said.
Testing on track
Meanwhile, at the Haffkine institute, scientists are still struggling with the backlog of swabs to be tested though lowered panic levels have made their job easier.
Until last week, we were receiving more than 300 swabs a day while our capacity is only 80-100 tests daily.
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Now, however, we are only receiving 25-30 samples from patients with complications. This doesn't mean that well be discarding the old swabs, but yes it will take time for all of it to be tested.
We are continuing to work past midnight to deal with the backlog of cases, said Chowdhary.
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