Help stem virus spread, administration exhorts people

Karam Prakash

Tribune News Service

Patiala, July 14

In the wake of rising Covid cases in the district, the Health Department and the district administration have appealed to citizens for ‘community participation’ to stem the spread. The appeal came hours after residents in several containment areas, especially Top Khana Mor, opposed health workers.

Foot soldiers – ASHA workers – have been continuously facing abuses from residents during the house-to-house survey.

Residents in the containment area were reportedly upset over the erratic supply of essential items. They were not ‘cooperating’ with health officials during the screening and sampling.

A doctor, who has been conducting tests in the area, said: “There is a sense of fear among health officials after we faced resentment. People gherao us and start shouting.”

While making the appeal, Patiala Deputy Commissioner Kumar Amit said people should understand that they (authorities) were taking all possible steps to stem the spread of the virus. If people don’t participate in the fight against the pandemic, the situation would worsen.

“Wear a face mask and maintain social distancing. Next two weeks are very crucial for everyone. We will not be able to succeed without the support and active participation of citizens,” he said.

Patiala Civil Surgeon Dr Harish Malhotra said: “People should come forward and report all inter-state travellers. I appeal to people of Patiala to avoid unnecessary movement. They should start wearing a face mask and follow social distancing strictly.” He said if anyone had symptoms of Covid, he/she must come forward for testing to prevent the spread of the disease. Covid-19 patients were being treated and looked after day and night by the dedicated staff of the Health Department.