– An article written by Shivani Gadre
The Central Government has issued a high alert to all hospitals as a mysterious pneumonia-like disease emerges in children in China, post the COVID-19 era. This has prompted both central and state governments, including Surat Civil Hospital in India, to be on high alert. Given the severity of respiratory diseases observed among children in China, including influenza, mycoplasma pneumonia, and global concern, including the World Health Organization, is rising.
In response, the Indian government, through advisories, has instructed health systems at various levels—city and district health systems, health officers, and civil hospitals—to be vigilant. This advisory emphasizes a proactive approach to avoid the mistakes made during the COVID-19 pandemic. The state government has already issued advisory notices to all health systems, focusing on the need to review and update the availability of beds, equipment, testing facilities, and other resources in hospitals.
Medical professionals, including Medical Officers, Physicians, Anesthetists, Microbiologists, Lab Technicians, and Staff Nurses, are expected to be well-prepared. Sensitizing paramedical staff and ensuring the supply of essential resources such as ventilators, PPE kits, antiviral drugs, and oxygen are highlighted priorities. Hospitals are urged to check the availability of isolation wards and establish systems for their swift activation.
In response to the alert, Surat Civil Hospital has taken comprehensive measures. The hospital has conducted mock drills to test fire safety and the functionality of the oxygen plant. The administration has meticulously reviewed and ensured the availability of critical resources, including PPE kits and medicines. Additionally, the hospital has proactively set up an oxygen plant, emphasizing preparedness for any potential situation.
This multi-level alert system and preparedness strategy underscore the government’s commitment to avoiding a recurrence of challenges faced during the earlier pandemic. By keeping health systems well-informed, updated, and adequately equipped, the government aims to protect public health and swiftly respond to any emerging health threats, ensuring the safety and well-being of the population.
