Former Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot has tested positive for swine flu. Just last week Mr. Gehlot had criticized the government for its inability to control A(H1N1) influenza which has claimed over 30 lives in January.

Mr. Gehlot tweeted on Sunday that he had tested positive for the H1N1 virus but his condition has improved after starting treatment in time. “Mujhe bhi swine flu positive aaya hai lekin maine samay par ilaaj shuru kar liya hai, ab improvement hai,” he tweeted (I was also tested positive for swine flu. However, due to timely treatment, there has been an improvement).

In a statement issued by Mr. Gehlot here, he said it was necessary that all individuals should be aware of the disease to prevent it and faster recovery. Taking the opportunity to criticize the Bharatiya Janata Party government, Mr. Gehlot said the awareness campaign being run by it now should have been initiated earlier to save precious lives.

He said when the swine flu outbreak was reported during his tenure, his government had announced free testing and treatment for the patients, which the present government has done now after many people have lost their lives.

Rajasthan has witnessed over 30 deaths due to swine flu in January, prompting the state government to direct senior medical officers from the medical directorate to go to various districts for effective monitoring of cases of swine flu. A special control room has been set up and all free treatment announced for the influenza at all public health facilities.