Harsh Vardhan reviews actions taken, further preparedness on coronavirus

Union Health Minister, Dr Harsh Vardhan on Wednesday reviewed the various actions being undertaken in close coordination with various ministries at the central level, States as well as Indian embassies abroad.

Vardhan chaired a high-level review meeting with senior officials of the Ministry, Director of Central Government Hospitals such as Safdurjung, Dr RML Hospital, and AIIMS, here today.

"Union Health Minister appreciated the various actions being undertaken in close coordination with various ministries at the central level, States as well as Indian embassies abroad. He also lauded the States for active surveillance, effective contact tracing and their preparedness for containment and management of COVID-19," press statement said.

He reviewed the preparedness regarding hospital management such as OPD blocks, availability of testing kits, personal protective equipment (PPEs), medicines, and adequate isolation wards.

"He directed hospitals to ensure adequate availability of protective gear for all healthcare workers. He was informed that an adequate quantity of Personal Protection Equipments (PPE), masks, sanitizers, handheld thermometers, etc., are being procured and provided to the designated places as per demand along with maintaining the stock to address any future demand. He reviewed in the quarantine facilities for the evacuees including the ones at the airports/other key transit points, in terms of segregation of passengers, transportation to the quarantine facilities, health check-ups," the statement added.

The Health Minister has directed for teams to be deputed to regularly inspect and monitor the quarantine facilities to ensure that the necessary amenities and facilities are being provided. The Minister stated that he shall be reviewing the same every day with the aim of improving them. He further added that he is reviewing the situation with the respective States/UTs.

Highlighting the critical importance of effective communication as a tool of crisis management, Vardhan advised for multi-media communication campaigns that would focus on different aspects such as preventive measures, busting myths, equipping the masses with information on guidelines, advisories, testing labs, etc.