More than half the people who died of H1N1 across India until August 30 also suffered from other health conditions, according to data compiled by the government.

Out of the 82 victims until August 30, 53 had other illnesses. While 36 suffered from “co-morbid” conditions like diabetes, heart disease and lung disease, others suffered anaemia, blood disorders, liver dysfunction and even HIV.

Though underlined illnesses played a big role, the government said most of the victims reported to the health facilities five days after showing symptoms. Besides, the designated health facility seemed to be the third choice — in most cases people went to at least two other healthcare facilities before reporting to the government centres.

People also died due to delay in starting treatment. The average gap between symptoms and starting treatment was five days. “One of the reasons for delayed treatment was that most facilities waited for positive test results before giving Tamiflu, as per the previous guidelines. We, however, have changed that and people in high risk and reporting severe symptoms are being given the Tamiflu even before the tests confirm the disease,” said Dr S K Srivastava, Director-General, Health Services.

While there were more men (43) than women (39), maximum casualties (24) were in the age group of 36 and 45, followed by 18 from the 26-35 age group and 13 from the 16-25 group. While five were in the 0-5 age group, five belonged to 6-15 group. There was only one person who was above the age of 65, showing that young and old are at a lower risk.

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