Vijayawada: In the wake of Andhra Pradesh reporting sporadic covid cases across the state, the state government stepped up the Covid-19 preparedness by directing all government hospitals to remain on high alert.
As part of the measures to handle the rising Covid-19 cases and ensure treatment for the patients at the government hospitals, the government has readied 255 dedicated beds in all 17 teaching hospitals, while secondary hospitals have also been instructed to earmark beds based on local requirements.
Teaching hospitals currently have 6.78 lakh triple-layer masks, while another 5.26 lakh masks are available in central drug warehouses. In addition, 58,790 N95 masks, 4,436 PPE kits and 2,572 sanitiser bottles have been stocked. Officials said adequate quantities of antibiotics, IV fluids and other medicines required for Covid treatment are also available.
On Tuesday, secretary (Medical&Health) G Veerapandian chaired a virtual meeting with the senior officials within the medical and health department and reviewed the state’s Covid-19 preparedness and directed officials concerned to evolve phased-action plans based for tackling the rising cases in the state.
To speed up emergency response, the DME recently authorised hospital superintendents to procure Remdesivir injections, testing kits, sanitisers and other essential supplies through local purchases, eliminating delays associated with central procurement.
As part of statewide preparedness, APMSIDC has placed orders for 51,700 RNA extraction kits, 27,552 RT-PCR kits, PCR consumables, filter tips, microtubes and nitrile gloves. It has also initiated the supply of 50 Remdesivir injections to each hospital. Distribution of PCR strips and filter tips has already begun, while the remaining materials are expected to reach hospitals within the next two days.
Acting on the directions of health minister Satya Kumar Yadav, officials have ensured the availability of testing kits, medicines, dedicated Covid beds, personal protective equipment (PPE) and other emergency supplies across the state. During a review meeting last week, the minister said the public need not worry but instructed the Health Department to stay vigilant and ensure prompt testing and treatment for suspected cases.
The medical and health department authorities reiterated that the state is continuously monitoring the Covid-19 situation and advised people with symptoms to visit the nearest government hospital for testing and treatment.
