Assam well-prepared to curb potential HMPV infection: Health Minister Ashok Singhal

Guwahati, Jan 10: Assam is fully equipped to handle any potential outbreak of human metapneumovirus (HMPV) infection, Health Minister Ashok Singhal assured on Friday during a review meeting in Dibrugarh.

While HMPV has been known since 2021, Singhal clarified that no immediate advisory is being issued.

“We remain on alert and ready to follow the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) guidelines should cases rise nationally. However, there is currently no cause for alarm,” he stated.

Singhal emphasized that Assam’s healthcare system, bolstered by its experience during the COVID-19 pandemic, is well-prepared for emergencies: “Our doctors, nurses, and paramedics demonstrated extraordinary dedication during the pandemic. With that foundation, we are confident in our ability to manage any health crisis,” Singhal said.

In comprehensive review meetings held across Upper Assam districts, Singhal highlighted the need for urgent improvements in maternal and neonatal mortality rates (MMR and IMR), which remain higher in these regions than other parts of the state.

On Friday, he conducted a similar review for Dibrugarh, Tinsukia, Charaideo and Sibsagar districts at the Dibrugarh District Commissioner’s office.

The meetings focused on improving maternal and neonatal mortality rates, the Rashtriya Bal Swasthya Karyakram and screening for non-communicable diseases among people over 30.

Singhal emphasized the need to enhance healthcare infrastructure, ensure routine vaccinations in line with registration data and conduct awareness campaigns on healthy lifestyles. He directed officials to ensure 100% routine vaccination for mothers and newborns and stressed the importance of monitoring the Wage Compensation Scheme for pregnant women in tea estates, particularly addressing the exclusion of beneficiaries in Tinsukia.

Expressing concern over a shortage of doctors and paramedical staff, the minister instructed the National Health Mission (NHM) to expedite recruitment efforts.

“We must address these gaps immediately to ensure healthcare accessibility and service efficiency,” Singhal directed.

Singhal stressed the importance of leveraging ASHA workers to enhance hygiene awareness and promote preventive healthcare measures. He directed health officials to strengthen the Rashtriya Bal Swasthya Karyakram by conducting comprehensive school health check-ups across 30-32 key indicators.

Additionally, he emphasized accelerating registration for Ayushman Bharat Health Accounts (ABHA) and encouraging doctors to prescribe physical activities like yoga and walking for preventive care.

The review meetings, attended by district commissioners, MLAs, health officials, and NHM representatives, underscored the government’s commitment to delivering quality healthcare services. Singhal commended ongoing efforts and urged continued diligence to ensure accessible, affordable, and high-quality healthcare for all citizens.

“We are dedicated to strengthening Assam’s healthcare systems and improving the well-being of our people,” Singhal added.

Hot this week

Pay hike of Assam ministers, MLAs likely as 3-member panel submits report

Full report likely by Oct 30 Guwahati Sept 25: There...

Meghalaya Biological Park Inaugurated After 25 Years: A New Chapter in Conservation and Education

Shillong, Nov 28: Though it took nearly 25 years...

ANSAM rejects Kuki’s separate administration demand, says bifurcation not acceptable

Guwahati, Sept 8: Rejecting the separate administration demand of...

Meghalaya man missing in Bangkok

Shillong, Jan 10: A 57-year-old Meghalaya resident, Mr. Treactchell...

Meghalaya’s historic fiber paves the way for eco-friendly products and sustainable livelihoods

By Roopak Goswami Shillong, Oct 25: From making earbuds to...

Play Free Port Machines: A Guide to Online Casino Site Games

Slots have constantly been a popular form of amusement...

Shylla sets 24-month deadline for Jowai shopping mall

Shillong, Sept 18: Health minister and Jowai MLA, Wailadmiki...

West Jaintia Hills fair to empower PwDs

Shillong, Sept 18: A fair to promote awareness, inclusion,...

ILP demand: Bring BJP to power to see ‘light of the day’: Shullai  

BJP leader urges NGOs to review stand against railways   Shillong,...

13-yr-old boy ‘responsible’ for death of girl child  

Boy produced before Juvenile Justice Board ** No injury...

Splitting 5-year term among 2 MLAs pre-decided: Shullai  

Minister lauds CM, BJP high command for honouring ‘agreement’   Shillong,...

Metbah Lyngdoh admits challenges in ‘any dept’  

‘No division in UDP over cabinet reshuffle… it was...
spot_img

Related Articles

Popular Categories