'The best way is to stay home for seven days. We have advised people not to travel when they are ill.'

He said though India has not been badly affected by the virus, it's better to stay prepared. 'With over a billion people, the situation can be worse. It is better to stay prepared than face some tough times.'

He said scientists in CDC are in touch with their Indian counterparts. 'Both countries are sharing information regarding swine flu. It is good and important for both the countries,' he said.

In comparison to the US, 429 cases have been reported from India so far. A majority of the reported cases have been 'imported'.