Hubballi/Dharwad, December 28: Health minister Dr K. Sudhakar on Tuesday said that a mock drill was conducted in hospitals across the state to study the preparedness of the hospitals to face the challenges of Covid.
Speaking to the media, Dr Sudhakar said he was satisfied by the response of the hospitals. “There may be slight tightening of the system in certain areas but by and large we are equipped and prepared to meet the challenges,” the health minister added.
Stating that there is a stock of 8.50 lakh doses of vaccine, Dr Sudhakar called upon the people to take third dose vaccination.
In response to a question, Dr Sudhakar said there was no necessity of imposing restrictions on the economic activities.
In the wake of increase in COVID-19 cases in the state, Health Minister Dr Sudhakar inspected the ‘mock drill’ conducted in various hospitals of the state.
He said that the people should join hands with government measures and follow precautionary measures. “Safety must become the everyday mantra of the people,” Dr Sudhakar said.
There are about 8.5 lakh doses of covid-19 vaccine available in the state and I urge everyone to get the third dose, Minister Sudhakar said.
Speaking at KIMS, Hubballi, the Minister said that the BF7 vatiant of Covid-19 is also another sub-variant of Omicron. Although the new variant spreads rapidly, the symptoms are not severe. Severity of disease has been reported in foreign countries only in those who have other co-morbidities. This is why vulnerable people have been warned to take extra precautions in the guidelines.
The elderly and those with other health problems, pregnant women and children have been advised to avoid crowded areas, Dr Sudhakar added.
“Mask is now compulsory. Surveillance has been stepped up at Bengaluru and Mangaluru international airports,” the health minister said. According to Dr Sudhakar, 50-60 beds are reserved for Covid-19 patients in each hospital.
“KIMS in Hubli has 200 ventilators, a team of expert doctors and staff. There is also a good stock of medicines. There are two oxygen tanks of 40 kl each. KIMS Hospital worked very successfully during the first and second covid waves. It will continue to provide good service to the people, Minister Sudhakar said.
International passengers are being randomly screened at the airports per centre’s guidelines, Dr Sudhakar added.
EOM
