Kullu steps up Covid readiness

In response to a recent advisory from the National Health Mission (NHM) on emerging Covid-19 cases in several states, the Kullu district health department has intensified its surveillance and preparedness measures. Though Himachal Pradesh has not yet reported any confirmed cases, authorities are proactively implementing preventive strategies to curb potential Covid-19 and influenza outbreaks.

Advertisement

Kullu Chief Medical Officer (CMO) Dr Nag Raj Pawar confirmed that the district’s Regional Hospital is equipped with 21 ventilators and adequate oxygen supplies to handle emergencies. “A duty roster for doctors, staff nurses, and paramedical personnel is being finalized to streamline sampling and treatment. Block Medical Officers have been instructed to manage potential Covid-19 cases within their respective health facilities,” he said.

Block-level facilities, including Primary and Community Health Centers, are being prepared with basic infrastructure for sampling and treatment. A dedicated Covid-19 ward is planned at the Regional Hospital in Kullu. An existing ward in the old hospital building has been identified for conversion if necessary.

Dr Pawar stated that around 100 beds have been earmarked for isolating and treating both suspected and confirmed Covid-19 patients. “We are fully prepared to prevent the spread of the virus. Comprehensive arrangements have been made for all five health blocks, from testing to treatment,” he added.

Health facilities have been instructed to reinforce infection prevention measures such as mask-wearing and respiratory hygiene. Hospital infrastructure, including beds, oxygen concentrators, PSA plants, antibiotics, and essential consumables, is being reviewed to ensure operational readiness.

Daily reporting of Influenza-like Illness (ILI) and Severe Acute Respiratory Illness (SARI) through the IHIP-4DSP portal has been mandated. All confirmed Covid-19 and influenza cases must be reported using the prescribed L form. Lab-confirmed Covid-19 samples, if any, will be sent for Whole Genome Sequencing to the State INSACOG-accredited lab or SLBSGMC, Nerchowk. Samples may also be referred to the National Institute of Virology (NIV), Pune, for timely identification of new variants. All sample-related data must be shared with the state surveillance unit.