KOLKATA: Around 27,400 vials of Remdesivir have been allocated for supply to Bengal from April 21 to 30, according to a statement issued by the Centre.
This development comes in the backdrop of CM Mamata Banerjee’s letter to PM Narendra Modi two days ago, referring to a crisis in availability of the drug used for Covid treatment. The allocation includes bulk purchase by the state and supplies through private distribution channels.
Senior health department officials had, on Tuesday, met major drug suppliers to regularize supply of essential medicines, including Remdesivir and Tocilizumabin hospitals. The assistant drug controller will conduct checks to prevent hoarding of drugs and oxygen cylinders. The police have been asked to ensure smooth movement of medical supplies and quick turnaround time for oxygen cylinders. State health secretary Sanjay Bansal will coordinate with drug manufacturers for adequate supply of these medicines.
While some Remdesivir trickled in, Tocilizumab hasn’t. Sources said some vials are being sold at four times the MRP in the black market.