Ranchi, Aug. 30 -- The Jharkhand Health Department has been placed on high alert in view of potential H1N1 (Swine Flu) cases across the state, with Health Minister Irfan Ansari issuing comprehensive directives to step up surveillance, testing, and hospital preparedness.

Urging citizens not to panic, Ansari emphasised that "H1N1 is a respiratory viral infection, and with timely detection and proper medical treatment, most patients recover. Therefore, people do not need to panic; rather, they should remain alert and seek medical advice in a timely manner upon developing symptoms."

Chairing a high-level review meeting on Saturday with senior department officials, including Additional Chief Secretary Ajay Kumar, medical college heads, and C...