Quarantine stamp leaves returnees with skin burns, blisters

Our Reporter
Dimapur, June 28 (EMN): Dimapur returnees released from institutional quarantine have complained of skin burn and allergic reaction from the ink/dye of the discharge stamp used by authorities to indicate their relocation to home quarantine.

Photographs of their skin conditions were shared on social media on Sunday.

The office of chief medical officer (CMO) of Dimapur had reportedly issued an SOP stating that during discharge from the quarantine centre, stamp with inedible ink should be used; and if any reaction is noticed, the doctor in-charge should be informed immediately.

Eastern Mirror spoke to Dr. Molu, a dermatologist, who said that the reaction is known as ‘irritant contact dermatitis’ and happens to people with sensitive skin, as some may be allergic to certain ink/dye.

“Not everyone is immune to certain dye or ink; and out of ten people, one will have the reaction,” he said.

According to him, it is not possible to skin-test every person when stamping, and the ‘government would not harm any person knowingly’.

The dermatologist recommended those with the allergic reaction to take mometasone with fusidic acid cream twice a day.

“It is not a very serious issue and a person with sensitive skin is bound to be allergic to certain products,” a doctor, who did not wish to be named, said.

Certain medications, ointments and anti-inflammatory medicines will heal the skin allergy within certain days, the doctor said.