Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru

Mangaluru, Dec 25: In response to the emergence of the JN.1 substrain of Covid, hospitals across Dakshina Kannada district, bordering Kerala state, have been actively prepared. As a key hub in the medical sector, the district boasts a high number of private hospitals, with government hospitals being the primary choice for many. Patients not only from the district but also from Uttara Kannada, Udupi, Chikkamagaluru, and Kodagu districts often seek medical care at Wenlock District Hospital in the city.

The district administration has ensured that government hospitals are equipped with monitored facilities, including beds, oxygen units, liquid oxygen units, and more, in anticipation of any epidemic outbreak.

During the second wave of Covid, the district set up 16 oxygen-generating units with a total capacity of 5,844 LPM, facilitated by various organizations. Wenlock Hospital alone has three units with capacities of 1,000 LPM, 930 LPM, and 500 LPM, while Lady Goshan Hospital has a 500 LPM oxygen unit. Additionally, hospitals in Puttur, Sullia, Beltangady, Moodbidri taluks, Ullal, Kadaba, Vittal, and Wamapadav are equipped with oxygen units, thanks to the corporate social responsibility funds of various organizations.

Staff Shortage Challenge:
While hospitals have an adequate number of beds, ICU beds, oxygen units, and jumbo cylinders, the major challenge faced by the health department is the shortage of staff to manage and care for the patients. Out of the 992 sanctioned posts in the district, 518 remain vacant. Limited outsourcing has been done for specific positions, and the existing staff is shouldering additional responsibilities.

Dr H R Thimmayya, District Health and Family Welfare Officer, assures, "In the event of a sudden surge in Covid cases, all government hospitals are ready to provide swift service to patients. Private hospitals in the district also offer quality facilities, with coordinated efforts between them and the government. Wenlock Hospital in Mangalore houses a Covid testing laboratory, complemented by 10 laboratories in the private sector. Currently, government hospitals have 1,960 RT-PCR test kits, and private hospitals have 409 RAT kits. Additional supplies will be provided by the government as needed."