Guidelines issued to check Covid preparedness in Hisar

In response to fresh Covid-19 cases, the Haryana Health Department has issued new guidelines aimed at strengthening preparedness and minimising the spread of infection across the state. The Health Department has advised all civil surgeons and Chief Medical Officers (CMOs) to ensure close monitoring of the situation and enforce preventive measures effectively.

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Dr Subhash Khatreja, the senior medical officer in Hisar, said they had set up flu corners at the Civil Hospital and all other hospitals. He said no fresh Covid cases had been reported in Hisar district so far. However, they were collecting samples of those suffering from flu-like symptoms, he added.

According to the directives, all districts must increase Covid testing and intensify surveillance, particularly in crowded areas, healthcare institutions and places with high footfall. The civil surgeons have been directed to ensure adequate availability of testing kits, medicines, personal protective equipment (PPE) and oxygen supplies at all health facilities.

As per the guidelines, the hospitals have been asked to remain alert and update their preparedness to manage any potential surge. Isolation beds, ICU facilities and oxygen support systems should be kept ready. Special monitoring is advised for patients with influenza-like illness (ILI) and severe acute respiratory infections (SARI) with immediate testing for suspected cases.

The guidelines stated that the districts had also been told to ensure regular reporting of Covid cases to the state’s Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP) and to follow clinical protocols for testing, treatment and referral.

Besides, public awareness campaigns are also being re-launched to encourage Covid -appropriate behaviour such as mask usage, hand hygiene, respiratory etiquette and social distancing at public spaces. Vulnerable groups, including senior citizens, people with co-morbidities and immune-compromised individuals were urged to take extra precautions and avoid crowded areas, it stated.

The health authorities have reiterated that while the situation is at present under control, proactive preparedness is essential. The Health Department has said it is keeping a close watch on the evolving scenario and will take timely actions as required.