Chandigarh mulls helpline for Covid test at government hospitals

Tribune News Service

Chandigarh, July 24

Symptomatic persons may soon be able to book an appointment for Covid-19 test at government

hospitals.

During a review meeting today, UT Administrator VP Singh Badnore directed Arun Kumar Gupta, Principal Secretary (Health), to explore the possibility of opening a helpline, wherein residents having symptoms or suspicion can book an appointment for Covid test at the GMSH, Sector 16, the GMCH, Sector 32, and the PGIMER, at the government’s cost.

The Administrator said there should be second screening at the Bapu Dham Colony and Raipur Kalan areas and all new cases should be properly mapped, so that their sources and contacts were properly traced.

Need for more vigourous testing, says Badnore

Badnore said there was a need for more vigorous testing, particularly among persons, who were coming to OPDs for treatment. He said more activities should be organised to make people aware of the need to follow hygiene practices and wear masks at all times.

He also directed KK Yadav, Commissioner, Municipal Corporation, to explore ways and means to restrict the number of people gathering in public places such as parks, markets and Sukhna Lake.

Dr G Dewan, Director (Health Services), stated that they had completed a door-to-door survey of the entire Mani Majra, covering a total of 2,725 houses and 10,038 people. He said 14,937 people had been covered during a total screening of Sector 45.