The rising number of swine flu cases in the country is worrying, to say the least. The disease has claimed 407 lives in the country, this year alone. In the last 10 days, more than 200 people have lost their lives to the virus.The numbers are frighteningly high and, unfortunately, stocks of H1N1 drug, Tamiflu, are running dangerously low. According to IBN Live, the government has cancelled any vacation days doctors might have coming up, to deal with this 'alarming' outbreak. Hospitals have also been directed to set up special swine flu wards, so that they maybe better equipped to handle the situation. Unfortunately, this means more than just staying off bacon for a bit. Without plunging into 'panic mode', it's important to make sure we're aware of the symptoms, transmission and treatment of the H1N1 virus. The numbers demand it. 68 positive cases in Delhi. 942 in Telangana, 1075 in Gujarat and 1248 in Rajasthan. And counting.

To make matters worse, Tamiflu, the cure for swine flu, is running short in several states. It is a controlled drug and cannot be procured from all medical stores.

"...Enough to deal with the present scenario", says MDM hospital superintendent Deepak Verma. Not enough, however, to deal with this kind of unprecedented rise in cases.

So, what can you do? Learn to recognise the symptoms. Swine flu looks and feels, deceptively, like a seasonal flu. A lab test is the only way to distinguish one from the other and really know for sure.

If you have a runny nose, fever, chills, severe vomiting, abdominal pain or dizziness - it might be time to get tested.