An expert panel, set up by an institute under the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), has predicted a third wave of COVID-19 hitting the country anytime between September and October.
As per the official, P.K. Mohapatra, Additional Chief Secretary to Government, Health & Family Welfare Department has written to all collectors regarding approval of Emergency COVID Response Plan (ECRP) for tackling the possible 3rd wave.
The major activities approved under ECRP Phase-II are-
- COVID essential diagnostics (Provision of Rapid Antigen & RT-PCR Test kits & establishment of RT-PCR Labs) and drugs (8 types of essential drugs).
- Establishment of Dedicated Pediatric Care Units (20/ 30 bedded Oxygen supported wards & 12 bedded Hybrid ICU).
- Establishment of Prefab units at PHC (6 bedded) & CHC (20 bedded) level.
- Provision of additional ICU Beds in existing lCUs.
- Establishment of 50 bedded field hospitals at selected DHH/ SDH/ CHC level.
- Upgradation of BLS to ALS Ambulance for augmenting capacity of referral transportation services.
- Support for establishment Liquid Medical Oxygen (LMO) & Medical Gas Pipeline System (MGPS).
- Provision for engagement of additional Human Resources (i.e. Medical PG Residents, Medical UG interns, Final Year MBBS students, Final Year GNM Nursing students & Final Year BSc. Nursing students only).
- Strengthening implementation of e-HMIS at DHH level through the support of OCAC & CDAC.
- Strengthening Hub (MCHs), Sub-Hub (DHHs) & Spokes (COVID Care Centers) for teleconsultation services in the State.
- Capacity building for strengthening COVID management services, wherever required.
