Gear up for possible third wave of coronavirus, Nagaland Health minister tells officials

Our Correspondent
Kohima, June 12 (EMN): Minister of Health and Family Welfare, S Pangnyu Phom on Saturday urged district health authorities to “gear up” for a possible third wave of coronavirus pandemic in the state.

Phom made the remark during a video conference with the chief medical officers and medical superintendents of all Nagaland districts.

Recent reports claimed that the impending third wave would affect children, unlike the first two waves. Accordingly, various states across the country have started preparations to address the possible situation.

The state’s Health minister urged the district health authorities, his department as well as the public to gear up and start preparing for the third wave. He further sought “suggestions and grievances” from MS and CMOs to help prepare a strategy to tackle the looming event.

Phom also instructed district authorities to prepare necessary facilities and treatment centres for post Covid-19 management.

Health department had earlier said that the state government-funded project of a 200-bedded acute care hospital at Christian Institute of Health Sciences and Research had been upgraded from 176 beds, keeping in view the predicted third wave that could affect children.

During the video conference, Phom also reviewed the status of Covid-19 management, availability of equipment, testing and vaccination status in the districts. He urged the officials to ramp up testing and vaccination and further directed to expedite the civil works for oxygen generation plants in the districts so that installation work of the projects can be started.

While appreciating the relentless service of the healthcare workers in the fight against Covid-19 pandemic, the minister warned that any instance of unauthorised absence from duty would not be tolerated and would be dealt with disciplinary actions.