What Indian parents need to know and do?

So that was funny but what is coming next is no laughing matter. Read it and keep your family safe.

• If your child has fever, throat infection, body ache, consult doctor.

• Must go to a doctor at any government facility meant for swine flu.

• Swine flu testing is done only at government hospitals.

• Nose and throat swabs will be taken and tested.

• Child will not be quarantined if there are no symptoms.

• If clinical symptoms exist, child will be hospitalized, and tamiflu will be given only if the tests are positive.

• Act early to ensure quick recovery.

• Rapid screening advised by private hospitals not legal.

• Do not go for rapid screening as it's not 100 per cent accurate.

In times of crisis the worst thing is to panic so if you or your family member is having flu-like symptoms without wasting time go to the nearest designated hospital or doctor and get tested if he advises. If you have any queries don't listen to rumours and panic, call toll free helplines: 1075 or 1800-11-4377. Swine flu is certainly curable with timely intervention, correct diagnosis and a five-day medication.

Some specific precautions to be taken against H1N1:

• A mask to cover your nose and mouth is a must. These are not just regular masks but a special one called N-95 which filter microbes in the air that you inhale and exhale.

• A mask is a must when you are in a high-risk situation particularly when you have to go to a hospital to get tested and you have to be in the waiting room. Also keep the mask on when you are in a crowded place.

• Cover your mouth surely while coughing and sneezing turn your head and cough into your shoulder.

• Wash your hands in case there is body contact with someone who's got cold and cough.