PANJIM: In view of the increasing corona virus cases in India, the State government on Wednesday decided to have separate outpatient departments (OPDs) for foreign passengers and have set up ten bedded isolation wards at Community Health Centre, Sanquelim and TB Hospital in Margao.
Also, the Goa Medical College and Hospital (GMC) has issued precautionary measures for all people in the State.
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The Union Ministry for Health and Family Welfare has confirmed 28 cases of corona virus in India.
Health Minister Vishwajit Rane held a review meeting to oversee the preparedness to deal with coronavirus cases, if any, in Goa.
Rane said the meeting, which was held, was attended by Chief Secretary Parimal Rai along with officials from Department of Tourism, Captain of Ports, education, women and child development, North and South Goa Collectors and others.
Stakeholders like Indian Medical Association, Goa and in charge of private hospitals were also present.
“Private hospitals are directed to follow GOI guidelines and also identify separate isolation facility in major hospitals as preparedness. Also to have separate OPD for foreign travellers,” Rane said.
He said that Chief Secretary and Secretary Health have been directed to have additional wards and accordingly we are prepared with ten-bedded isolation wards at Community Centre Sanquelim and TB Hospital in Margao.
Isolation wards are also put in place in GMC and Chicalim Hospital.
As an important measure, GMC has asked public to maintain social distancing. Washing of hands frequently, practicing respiratory hygiene by covering nose and mouth and seeking medical care or visit doctor in case of fever, cough and difficulty in breathing are other precautions that citizens are asked to take note of.
Health authorities have already decided to screen the passengers coming from all countries and not just China, Iran, Italy, Indonesia, Japan, Singapore, Nepal, South Korea, Vietnam, Malaysia, Hong Kong and Thailand. The move is as per the directions of Union Ministry for Civil Aviation and Ministry of Health.
As of now, Goa has no suspected case of corona virus.
The State had reported five serious suspected corona virus cases, however, all tested negative. Apart from this, there were total 53 people home quarantined since December, last year.
