New Delhi, Aug 12 - The central government Wednesday asked the states to take strict action against those hoarding masks and illegally selling Tamiflu, an anti-influenza drug, as swine flu claimed seven more lives to take India's toll to 17.

Joint Secretary (Health) Vineet Chawdhry said there was no need for all to wear an N95 masks, which is only for those who are either visiting a testing centre or are affected with the influenza A (H1N1) virus.

'We have heard that chemists are stocking Tamiflu. It is currently not allowed to be sold on retail. These people are selling it at higher prices,' Chawdhry said, adding that authorities have carried out raids following such reports.

Chawdhry was speaking to reporters after a meeting with state drug controller generals and drug manufacturers at the ministry headquarters here.

'It is necessary for state drug controllers to monitor and keep a vigil that no unauthorised stock appears in the market,' he added.

He said there have been reports that chemists were hoarding masks and selling these at exorbitant prices. 'We have heard that public is not getting these masks and that are being hoarded and sold at higher prices,' he said.

'It is necessary to emphasise at this point that shortages would not be tolerated. The state governments have to come with a heavy hand on all those hoarders and black-marketers. This is a public health emergency crisis in the country. Citizens from all walks of life have to coperate,' he added.

Chawdhry noted the shortage of N95 masks has been reported and said tehse kind of masks are not recommended for all people.