Sambalpur: Even as COVID-19 infections are increasing in various parts of Odisha and the neighbouring states, more patients are gradually coming to VIMSAR, the only COVID-19 hospital in Sambalpur. The VIMSAR authorities have expressed concern over treatment of patients whose number may likely go up, given the spread of the infections.
The authorities have sought to increase the number of beds at the COVID-19 hospital. The number of beds was 120. In March, the state government had issued a directive to decrease its number to 30 by March 16. This proposal is under consideration of the district administration. VIMSAR authorities have discussed the issue at a recent meeting. They have sought reconsideration of the government on its proposal to bring down the number of beds.
According to reports, in view of the rise in COVID-19 infections, the state government had directed the district administration to take up necessary measures to tackle the situation. Various restrictions have been imposed.
At a meeting, VIMSAR director Lalit Meher, Principal Prof Lala Mohan Nayak, the dean and heads of departments deliberated on possible measures on tackling the increasing number of COVID-19 patients.
Dr Sudarshan Pothal, the nodal officer of the COVID-19 management said, “The government will be proposed to increase the number of beds. Earlier, three to four patients were under treatment. For over a week, their number is increasing. By Thursday, 24 COVID-19 patients were under treatment. There is a need for increasing the number of beds. All necessary facilities are here. There are 100 beds and 20 beds in ICU. If the government gives permission for increasing the number beds, there will be no problem.”
He also added that patients from other districts like Bargarh, Bolangir, Sonepur, Boudh, Jharuguda and Deogarh could benefit.
“If patients coming for treatment of other diseases test COVID-19 positives, they are first treated for COVID-19 ,” he pointed out.
Notably, the VIMSAR has treated 10,092 patients so far while 78 of them have died.
PNN