Nagaland: Truck driver tests positive for Covid-19 in Longnak village

Our Reporter
Dimapur, June 5 (EMN): In an attempt to prevent the spread of Covid-19 pandemic in villages, the department of Health and Family Welfare has formed a surveillance team to work out modalities at various levels, starting from district hospitals (DH) to community health centres (CHC), primary health centres (PHC) and sub-centres.

The medical officer of Community Health Centre in Mangkolemba, Dr. Jetilo Magh, informed that out of 50 random samples — 40 in Longnak and 10 in Mangkolemba town area – collected on Saturday, only one was tested positive.

He said that the positive case, a truck driver, was returning to Mariani in Assam after unloading sand at Mokokchung. He added that the driver did not come into contact with the customer as payment was done online and the handyman of the truck also tested negative.

The medical officer informed that in order to control the surge of Covid-19 in rural areas, 12 accredited social health activists (ASHA) workers have been undertaking door-to-door community health surveillance at Mangkolemba.

Meanwhile, Extra Assistant Commissioner (EAC) of Longchem issued an order on Friday stating that all entry and exit to villages and towns under Longchem circle jurisdiction would be allowed through Tsutapela and Watiyongpang check gates only, and entry via other routes was strictly prohibited.

‘Without the permit issued by the competent administrative authority, no one will be allowed to enter and exit,’ the order stated and directed all to follow all the necessary laid down SOPs, violation of which would be punishable under Section 188 and 177 of the Indian Penal Code.

The officer also issued an order notifying about the purchase of essential commodities from Longchem town day-wise from Monday to Saturday for the villages under Longchem jurisdiction.

Meanwhile, the Japukong Youth Organisation (JYO) undertook a tour, visiting extra assistant commissioner (EAC) headquarters, PHC and police station in Longchem, police outpost in Saring village, and CHC and police check post at Mangkolemba on June 4 and the 5th.

While lauding the efforts of the frontline workers, the JYO team distributed refreshments during their visits and acknowledged their unwavering commitment towards the welfare of the people.

The JYO further acknowledged the Minister for Higher Education and Tribal Affairs, Temjen Imna Along for providing medical supplies to all the villages, medical kits to all sub-centres and PHC, and also providing free ambulance service for Covid patients from the area.