Mangaluru: “As a responsible citizen of the country, make sure to get yourself and your primary contacts tested in case you have any symptoms of COVID-19. Avoiding tests for different reasons may only lead to the spread of this disease,” said Dr Hansraj Alva of Vinaya Hospital and Research Centre, an active COVID warrior.
He was interacting with the scribes about the pandemic and the need for the citizens to be responsive and responsible in reporting the cases and getting tested.
“Rapid Antigen Test is the easiest and fastest way to get the COVID results, but unfortunately, there is a shortage of these test kits. There are signs that by November 2020, India may be number one in the world with regard to the number of COVID cases. The right information about the disease is the key factor and media has to play a vital role in making the citizens aware of the facts,” he added.
Regarding complaints that the tests done at different hospitals give varying reports, he said the reports don’t change as such. “The varying results may be the result of improper collection techniques, improper storage, or improper handling at the labs,” he added.
“Early detection, timely care, listening to your doctors, trusting them, being unbiased, easy access to testing and treatment, close monitoring, and detailed awareness are the only ways to fight this uninvited guest called COVID,” he said.
Speaking of how 370 doctors have dedicated their lives for the cause, the fear that doctors and hospitals are making money in the name of COVID is far from the truth, he said.
The Ayushman Bharath scheme can be used by BPL cardholders and they can get free treatment for COVID. Government-appointed nodal officers are also monitoring the cases closely and the rates for COVID treatment are fixed by the government. There is no chance for hospitals to make money out of this, he added.
Dr Hansraj Alva concluded the session by saying that the vaccine is on its way, although there is no clarity as to when it will reach us. “So, the mask is the vaccine, distancing is immunity and hand-washing is the medicine,” he said.
Dr Raveesh Thunga was also present and cleared various doubts about COVID-19.
