Suhail Khan
Srinagar, July 10 (KINS): Amid surge in coronavirus cases, government is mulling to designate more hospitals for COVID-19 patients in Kashmir.
At least three hospitals, JVC Bemina, CD Hospital, JLNM Hospital have been converted into COVID hospitals. Besides, several wards at SKIMS Soura and SMHS Hospital have also been designated for COVID-19 patients.
An official told news agency Kashmir Indepth News Service (KINS) that the administration has put concerned authorities on alert that there may be need for more hospitals for COVID-19 patients.
“Various hospitals in districts including Super Specialty Hospital in Srinagar are under consideration to be designated for COVID-19 patients. But no final decision has been taken yet,” the official said.
Principal Government Medical College Srinagar Dr Samia Rashid said many hospitals were short to accommodate COVID-patients.
“No more beds for COVID patients are available at CD Hospital. Government is yet to take any decision to designate any other hospital for COVID patients,” she added.
There has been a sudden rise in the coronavirus cases for the last few weeks and hospitals are not able to accommodate all these patients.
Taking note, Principal GMC Srinagar has also designated several wards at SMHS Hospital for COVID-19 patients.
The Valley including Srinagar has witnessed a surge in cases and deaths after business and trade activities were allowed.
The Government on Thursday informed out of 9501 positive cases, 3652 are active positive, 5695 have recovered and 154 have died; 14 in Jammu division and 140 in Kashmir division.
The government in its advisory says the best way to protect themselves from COVID-19 is by maintaining physical distance of at least 2 metre from others, frequently cleaning hands with an alcohol based hand sanitizer or washing them with soap and water and following good respiratory etiquette and hygiene.
As a measure for social distancing in public places and workplaces wearing a face cover is compulsory.
It says early detection of COVID-19 can prevent the spread of disease so we need to be responsible for the well-being of ourselves and everyone around us. “Not disclosing symptoms could put the life of individuals and their families at risk. In case of symptoms like fever, cough and difficulty in breathing report early. Do not fear, call COVID-19 helpline numbers and seek medical advice.”
Advisory has further exhorted upon the people not to step out of home, unless absolutely necessary. “If you have to move out for unavoidable reasons, ensure that you wear a mask and practice social distancing, personal hygiene and frequent hand washing with soap and water.”(KINS)
