February 17, 2002

'31'

    One team of experts from NICD has returned to Delhi with samples collected from the affected area. The samples have been put to test and the results are expected by Tuesday/Wednesday. All patients admitted in PGI Chandigarh and the Civil Hospital, Rohru, excepting one at PGI whose condition is serious, are stable and are responding to treatment. In all 17 cases were reported with three deaths.

    The Minister for Health and Family Welfare, Dr. C.P. Thakur, has said that the patients are responding to antibiotics. He said that there was no need to panic as no case was reported after February 8, 2002. He said that the illness could be a bacterial infection. The Government has assured the State Government of supply of antibiotics and pesticides. He said that he would visit the affected area during the week.