In a case of government incompetence, the Indian state of Karnataka has decided it was time for family doctors to start addressing the rising cases of swine flu.  This after confirmed cases hit 126 on April 12, 2012.

“The role of general practitioners is important now because treatment can be effective only if it is started on time. We have adequate stocks of Tamiflu, the only anti-viral drug for A(H1N1) and vaccines. But the medicines can be effective only if they are administered on time.”-Chandrashekar Malagi, State Health Department

Seven people have died in the state of Karnataka.

In another example of local government incompetence, state health officials have decided against H1N1 screenings at the Bengaluru International Airport!

Most airports in India are screening for the virus, that’s because the whole country is experiencing an epidemic of H1N1.

However, the government of India is trying to calm the public by saying the worst is over, at least in the district of Pune (state of Maharashtra): “It is true that the positive cases are lesser in past few days in Pune district. This is in line with reports that virologists and experts had arrived that the surge in cases is likely to abate in 2-3 weeks.”– Pradeep Awate, Central Health Ministry

The Indian state of Gujarat has just reported its 6th case of H1N1.

In the city of Nashik, state of Maharashtra, two people died.  City health officials are taking no chances there, opening six new H1N1 screening centers.

47 people have so far been screened in Nashik, 11 are now in the hospital.

In Mumbai, state of Maharashtra, a 23 year old woman died on April 13.

On April 5, 2012, it was reported that British health officials’ lax response to H1N1 outbreaks resulted in more deaths that during the 2009-2010 outbreak!

The report blamed British politicians who said public health funding was a waste of money and cut the budgets!  The result of the budget cutting is; 10% more hospital admissions, 30% more deaths, and 30% more ICU admissions.

On April 4, 2012, officials from United States, Canada and Mexico announced they are working together to create a cross border flu response system.

“…the three countries will work together and with international organizations to develop guidance for influenza surveillance systems for select animal species, as well as guidance on the characterization, case definition, and reporting of novel strains, and on triggers for public health response.”  also “…exploring new financing and procurement mechanisms, investments in new and more flexible technology and manufacturing platforms, and coordinating plans for preparedness exercises. The plan also touches on sharing best practices for stockpiling.” also “…identify legal and regulatory challenges for helping each other with personnel and medical countermeasures in a public health emergency.” -CIDRAP