On Wednesday, the Indian Medical Association (IMA) said that almost 99 doctors in India have succumbed to COVID-19, as most of them were general practitioners. The association had declared a red alert for medical staff and medical administrators to elevate their guard.

As per the IMA National COVID registry data, out of 1,302 doctors infected with COVID-19, almost 99 have succumbed to the disease. Out of those who have died, 73 doctors were above the 50 years of age, 19 doctors in the age-group of 35-50 and 7 doctors below 35 years.

The doctors body said in a statement that IMA has declared RED ALERT to doctors and medical administrators to increase their guard. The COVID-19 mortality has to be reduced and it must start with doctors and hospitals. The IMA had strongly promoted the leadership of doctors in implementing all scientific best practices.

It would require intense review and also of updating all administrative set ups in the hospitals, along with infection control protocols. Any gap regarding the safety of doctors, nurses and staff should be plugged. A feedback system should be organized from the doctors and employees. Cleaning and sanitizing protocols should be accurately followed.

The statement also said that analysis of data has revealed that as senior and young doctors are equally infected with COVID-19, mortality is seen higher in older doctors. Meticulous observance to the norms and discipline inside hospitals will definitely have a beneficial effect.

Dr Rajan Sharma, National President of IMA said that as the medical profession is the example of hope for the nation to help in the exit from the coronavirus pandemic, the increasing deaths due to COVID-19 among doctors has become of great concern. Doctors need to take charge of the current situation and make sure for the safety of themselves, their families, colleagues and staff. Approachable and scientific batch posting should be implemented. Working hours should be eased by concerns for safety. Providing for PPEs, physical distancing and sanitizers should be monitored on an everyday basis.

Secretary General of IMA Dr RV Asokan said that operation theaters, labour rooms, laboratories and casualties do require special care. ICUs and Critical Care units also need close scrutiny for adherence to best practices and protocols.

Source: NDTV