India starts preparation to make Covid-19 care safe for children

Treatment protocols, wards with space for parents, and specially trained staff are some measures

India has begun the dismal task of preparing its medical facilities to treat children in case the expected third wave hits them worse than earlier waves of coronavirus.  

A treatment protocol is being worked on for children who test positive. Beds and wards are being modified to create space for parents. Medical staff are being retrained. Equipment is being assessed to see if it needs re-calibration for younger bodies.   

Rahul Pandit, director, Critical Care, Fortis Hospital, Mumbai and a member of Maharashtra’s Covid Task Force, said the state was creating separate units for children within the jumbo covid centres.

“We are working