State Health Department Reviews COVID-19 Preparedness Amid New Variants

High-Level Meeting on COVID-19 Preparedness

On Monday, a significant meeting took place at the health department to assess the ongoing COVID-19 situation in the state and to strategize on how to manage it effectively. The session, held in the department's conference hall, was led by Pratyaya Amrit, the Additional Chief Secretary and Development Commissioner of the health department. The discussions focused on the current COVID-19 infection rates, the availability of medical resources, testing and treatment arrangements, and the supply of essential medicines and oxygen.

Civil Surgeons from all districts, along with medical college Principals and Superintendents, participated in the review via video conferencing, including representatives from AIIMS Patna, IGIMS Patna, RMRI Patna, and ESIC Hospital in Bihta. Amrit urged the public to stay calm regarding the new COVID-19 variant while remaining vigilant and informed about the situation. The Indian SARS-CoV-2 Genomics Consortium (INSACOG) has identified two new variants, NB.1.8.1 and LF.7, within India.

INSACOG was established by the central government under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare to monitor genome sequencing and variations of COVID-19 strains in India following the pandemic. The World Health Organization (WHO) has categorized these new variants as 'under monitoring.' Amrit instructed civil surgeons and medical college superintendents to identify suspicious cases, ensure strict monitoring, and facilitate timely testing. He emphasized that all districts should be prepared for any potential developments.

The health department has confirmed the availability of testing kits, masks, medicines, oxygen, and other essential equipment. Amrit highlighted the importance of transparency, effective coordination, and accountability in medical services. He also called for increased public awareness and enhanced regular monitoring. Key officials present at the meeting included Manoj Kumar Singh, Secretary of the health department, Dharmendra Kumar, Managing Director of Bihar Medical Services & Infrastructure Corporation Ltd (BMSICL), and Dr. Anupama Singh, the department's joint secretary.