The outbreak of severe acute respiratory syndrome Coronavirus (SARS-COV-2) resulting in disease Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) is now a declared pandemic. It has severely affected the world with over 3.8 lakh cases and has resulted in the loss of more than 16,500 precious lives.
In India, there are over 500 COVID positive cases and 10 Indians have lost their lives. In Maharashtra, 97 COVID positive cases have been found. We are in Stage 2 of the COVID_19 outbreak as community transmission is yet to be confirmed.
All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) Nagpur has been actively participating in containing the spread of COVID-19 infection. The administration along with all functional departments have been working continuously to prepare for managing COVID-19 cases. A Nodal Coordinator has been designated and sensitization of faculty, paramedical staff and students has been carried out.
A Corona Corner has been established at the entry equipped with thermal scanners, hand sanitizer facility, educational display boards and posters, daily news update and audio announcements.
Swab collection and transportation is being done as per MOHFW/ICMR guidelines.
All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) Nagpur is further taking steps to establish a 100-beded isolation ward which will include a 6-bedded Intensive Care Unit equipped with multipara monitors, infusion pumps, Fowler beds, intubation kits, defibrillators, ECG machines and ventilators. All patients will be treated as per management protocols given by AIIMS New Delhi.
Further to augment the testing capacity of Nagpur, Viral Research and Diagnostic Laboratories (VRDL) is being established at AIIMS on war footing and subsequent to inspection by NIV, Pune and ICMR, Delhi, one (1) testing facility will very soon be functional.
Procurement of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), masks (N-95 and triple layer surgical masks), gowns, goggles, gloves and slippers have been done.
Standard Operating Procedures have been developed as per MOHFW/ICMR guidelines.
AIIMS Nagpur is also supporting the Maharashtra State government by providing technical manpower for COVID-19 cases.
Four members have been deputed at IGGMC for assisting in PCR testing of COVID-19.
Three members have been deputed to the Central Response Team to Mumbai and Goa to support and facilitate the implementation of preparedness measures for COVID-19
AIIMS Nagpur is abreast of the developing situation and is determined to contribute its efforts to fight the COVID-19 pandemic.