Task force meeting held on global epidemic monkey pox
A District Task Force meeting was held today in the auditorium of the Chief Medical Officer’s Office, chaired by Deputy Commissioner Apoorva Devgan. The meeting emphasized that the health department is fully prepared to handle the global Mpox epidemic, assuring the public that there is no need for panic.
The meeting discussed strategies for inter-departmental coordination to tackle the disease. Deputy Commissioner Devgan instructed the Health Department to raise public awareness about Mpox, ensuring that accurate information is disseminated to prevent unnecessary fear.
The health department confirmed its readiness to address Mpox, with all necessary preparations in place. Facilities include 67 isolation beds at Nerchowk Medical College, 20 at Zonal Hospital, two at Civil Hospital Sundarnagar, and six in Karsog, along with ample medical equipment.
Tuberculosis Control Officer Dr. Arindam Rai provided a brief history of Mpox, noting its first case in Denmark in 1958 and its diagnosis in Congo. He explained that the disease can be transmitted from infected animals like monkeys, squirrels, and rats to humans, with symptoms appearing within five to 21 days. Symptoms include skin lesions, fever, muscle pain, and chills. Mpox is contagious and spreads through close contact, shared utensils, towels, and bedding. Early diagnosis and timely lab testing are crucial for effective treatment.
Chief Medical Officer Dr. Narendra Bhardwaj welcomed the Deputy Commissioner and other attendees, detailing the arrangements made to combat the disease.
The meeting was attended by Chief Medical Officer Dr. Narendra Bhardwaj, Medical Superintendent Dr. Dharma Singh, District Health Officer Dr. Dinesh Thakur, Program Officer Anuradha Sharma, Tuberculosis Control Officer Dr. Arindam Rai, District Development Officer DRDA Gopi Chand Pathak, District Panchayat Officer Anchit Dogra, Additional Commissioner MC Mandi Vikas Sharma, District Program Officer Ajay Badrel, District Welfare Officer Sameer, along with Senior Medical Officers and Division Medical Officers.
Launch of Handheld X-ray Machine
Deputy Commissioner Apoorva Devgan also launched a handheld X-ray machine, a first for the district. This portable device, acquired through the District Tuberculosis Prevention Committee (District TB Forum), can be transported to remote areas and provides X-ray results within minutes. Valued at approximately 40 lakh rupees, the machine will significantly benefit residents in distant locations by facilitating on-site medical checkups.
