Daijiworld Media Network - Bhubaneshwar (SHP)

Bhubaneshwar, Mar 23: The Odisha Medical Service Association (OSMA), a representative body for state government doctors excluding those in medical colleges requested for an immediate step to avail supply of personal protection equipment (PPE) kits to health care providers and doctors at the district and peripheral areas of the state, as per a report carried out by the Indian Express.

“There are insufficient masks, sanitizers and PPE kits. So there is a heavy chance of infection to health care providers. If that happens, we will enter into phase III of pandemic and that is very dangerous,” the letter to the state health department warns.

One of the senior doctors with OMSA stated that a stage 3 pandemic would spell disaster for the country and explained that the third phase refers to when an animal or person carrying the virus can produce sporadic cases or small clusters of disease in the population. Incomplete human-to-human transmission can occur in specific circumstances. Cases of the virus are confirmed with both proficient and continual human to human transmission.

The letter has been signed by key officials of the association, who have requested an immediate supply of six critical items – NIOSH (National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health) N95 approved particulate respirator, 100% nitrile, powder-free, latex-free superior puncture and tear-resistant HD gloves, ANSI (American National Standards Institute) approved lightweight reusable indirect vented (splash-proof) clear vision goggles, biohazard bags with international biohazard signs, disposable boot covers, resistant to particulate and liquids, elastic top 17 inches high and gowns.

Meanwhile, there has been no comment from the health secretary over the reasons for the shortage of medical equipment.