Demand for oxygen concentrators rises

Manav Mander

Tribune News Service

Ludhiana, May 8

Amid rising cases in the second wave of Covid-19, people have started purchasing oxygen concentrators fearing shortage of medical oxygen. The rise in demand has led to hike in the prices.

GS Grover, general secretary, Ludhiana District Chemist Association, said the demand of oxygen concentrators had increased suddenly as people have started buying these and keeping them at home in case of emergency.

“Presently, we are out of stock and not a single piece is available with us,” he said.

With increase in demand, prices have also increased. Oxygen concentrator with five litre capacity is more in demand. Earlier, it was available between Rs40,000-Rs50,000 but now is being sold anything between Rs70,000-Rs80,000.

A retailer in Civil Lines said he is daily getting 10-12 queries about oxygen concentrators. The supply is coming less but the demand is sky rocketing. “Last year people were hoarding sanitisers, gloves and masks and this year they are storing medical oxygen, concentrators, nebulisers, steamers etc”.

Harish Kalra, a city resident, who recently bought an oxygen concentrators by paying a huge amount said his son is asthmatic and fearing any shortage in near future he bought it for any unforeseen situation.

“We do not know what is in store for us in the future. Today, resources are available and we are not sure about the situation tomorrow, so I thought it was better to buy now,” said Kalra.

Dr Amit Gulrez, Deputy Medical Superintendent, Christian Medical College and Hospital, said oxygen concentrator was earlier also used for patients with respiratory problems but suddenly it has come to limelight due to Covid.

“It can be helpful to the patients during the initial days but if the condition deteriorated the patient will have to go to the hospital for medical aid and supervision. It is not a wonder equipment for coming out of covid,” said Dr Gulrez.

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