MLA speaks out against home isolation
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, July 01 2021:
Congress MLA K Ranjit has said that home isolation is the main reason for high positivity rate and death rate during the second wave of the pandemic.
Speaking at the inaugural function of mass vaccination camp in Sugnu AC, K Ranjit said experts had warned before hand that the virus in the second wave would be more contagious than the first wave.
Even with this information in hand, the Government decision to encourage home isolation has had a negative impact as it has led to spread of the virus faster, he added.
Community Home Isolation Centre (CHIC) for Sugnu AC is opened at JNV Umathel, but as many had opted for home isolation, the number of cases had risen above 100 and 4 persons have also died because of the virus, he added.
Many experts had also predicted a possible third wave and the media had also reported that some 9-0 States are already showing early signs of a third wave.
In this regard, the Chief Minister, who is also in charge of health should take up all necessary steps to ensure that the effect of the third wave is minimised in the State.
K Ranjit also appealed the Government to drop home isolation as an option in the treatment for COVID-19 as home isolation is not possible in most families in village areas in the absence of separate bathrooms.
As a preparation for a possible third wave, colleges or schools in each district can be converted as a Covid Care Centre or CHIC with a minimum capacity of 500 beds with oxygen facilities.
In the meantime all developmental work can be stopped for the time being as saving lives is the most important thing and using the fund in saving lives, he added.
Requests for more funds to fight the pandemic should be made to the centre for early preparation of a possible third wave, he suggested.
K Ranjit also thanked the work done by doctors, nurses and medical staff in Sugnu AC during the pandemic.