Health Department Urges Citizens to Take Precautions Against COVID-19, Seasonal Influenza and H1N1
Published on: September 09, 2026
By: BTNI
Location: Rajnandgaon, India
In view of the current weather conditions, the possibility of respiratory infections and some reported cases in the state, the Health Department has issued an advisory urging citizens to take necessary precautions against COVID-19, seasonal influenza and swine flu (H1N1).
Chief Medical and Health Officer Dr. Netram Navratna said that COVID-19, seasonal influenza and H1N1 infections may cause symptoms such as fever, cough, sore throat, weakness and respiratory problems. In some circumstances, more than one infection may occur simultaneously.
Health Department Advises Precautionary Measures
The Health Department has appealed to citizens experiencing cough, cold, fever or sore throat to avoid visiting crowded places. People have also been advised to cover their mouth and nose with a handkerchief, tissue or elbow while coughing or sneezing.
Frequent handwashing with soap and water has been recommended, along with the use of hand sanitiser whenever necessary. Citizens should also avoid unnecessarily touching their eyes, nose and mouth and maintain distance from close contact with sick individuals.
People experiencing symptoms have been advised to wear masks, particularly in crowded places and healthcare facilities.
The advisory also recommends drinking adequate water, consuming nutritious food and taking sufficient rest during illness.
Avoid Self-Medication
The Health Department has specifically advised citizens not to take antibiotics or antiviral medicines on their own in case of fever, cough or respiratory symptoms.
Medicines should be taken only on the advice of a qualified medical practitioner. Pregnant women, young children, elderly people and individuals with serious pre-existing illnesses or weakened immunity have been advised to exercise extra caution if symptoms develop.
Citizens experiencing health-related symptoms should seek medical consultation and testing at the nearest government health facility and should not ignore symptoms.
Warning Signs Requiring Medical Attention
The advisory identifies several warning signs that require prompt medical evaluation. These include:
- Difficulty in breathing or shortness of breath
- Chest pain or tightness
- Extreme weakness, fainting or dizziness
- Bluish discoloration of the lips or skin
- Persistent high fever or rapid deterioration in health
- Difficulty in breastfeeding or feeding among children
- Excessive drowsiness in children
- Sudden worsening of an existing medical condition
For patients showing severe respiratory symptoms, COVID-19 and influenza testing may be conducted as required following medical evaluation.
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Citizens Urged Not to Panic
The Health Department has clarified that there is no need to panic if symptoms appear. Citizens have been urged to follow basic preventive measures and seek timely medical advice whenever symptoms of illness develop.
The department has also appealed to people not to believe or circulate rumours or unverified information regarding COVID-19, influenza or H1N1.
The advisory aims to encourage timely medical consultation, responsible behaviour and preventive measures to reduce the risk of respiratory infections in the community.
