Srinagar: Kashmir’s lone tertiary-care hospital Sher-e-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS) Soura lacks kits for testing the H1N1 influenza the cases of which have been seen increasing in the valley in the recent past.
The revelation comes despite tall claims by authorities that regular state surveillance units have been put at place across valley to monitor the situation.
As per official figures, about 23 people died of Swine Flu in valley last year – the highest number of deaths by H1N1 in Kashmir.
A patient (name withheld) suffering from H1N1 told INS that she deposited Rs 500 in microbiology department for influenza test as per the hospital norms but was told by the department to go to genetic centre as “the kits were not available”.
“When I approached the genetic centre, the department categorically refused saying the hospital administration has stopped procuring such kits,” she said, adding, “I was asked to get it done at GK Medical Trust.”
The lady said when she enquired about the cost of tests at the Trust; she was utterly disappointed as it was around Rs 6,500 “which is too much and unaffordable for me”.
Several people including the families of patients at SKIMS voiced similar concerns and rued the official apathy by the hospital saying they are “easily” playing with the lives of people.
Despite repeated attempts, the Director SKIMS didn’t respond to phone calls by this correspondent.
