A training and sensitisation programme on H1N1, which claimed six lives in the city and more than 80 having tested positive since January, was conducted by the Public Health Department recently.
More than 165 doctors and paramedical staff from Government and private hospitals along with personnel from108 GVK-EMRI Emergency Ambulance Services took part. Since most of these personnel were likely to interact closely with the H1N1 patients, the training also dealt with ways to protect themselves. Logistical aspects such as preparation of isolation wards for H1N1 patients were elaborated during the programme. The housekeeping staff were also given training on methods to clean the wards. All of them were told to wear respiratory masks. The 108 personnel were instructed to disinfect stretchers used for moving H1N1 patients. S. Somasundaram, Deputy Director of Health Services, took part.