New Delhi, Jan 12 (Bureau) In view of the sharp increase in Covid-19 cases, the Central Government has directed States and Union Territories to ensure adequate stock of COVID medicine, oxygen and assistive devices. Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare Secretary, Rajesh Bhushan said all the medicines, oxygen and the storage and availability of assistive devices should be ensured. The order was given to the Principal Secretaries and Health Secretaries of all the States and Union Territories on Tuesday. The Health Secretary further said the Central Government is providing all possible support to strengthen the infrastructure of oxygen plants and health services across the country.
He stated that Medical oxygen is an important element in dealing with the effects of the pandemic. For this, the central government is helping to set up oxygen plants and ensure its supply to the patients. Bhushan further stated that there should be adequate storage of medicines and oxygen cylinders in hospitals for at least for the next 48 hours.Oxygen tankers should be also be filled and the supply system be smooth. The Health Secretary said Oxygen cylinders must be filled and in working condition and hospitals should appoint trained personnel. The letter also said there are adequate medical oxygen production plants in the country and their operation should be ensured. There should be synergy with private hospitals and oxygen control rooms should be set up, the letter added.