Preparing for Covid third wave, Maharashtra govt to set up pediatric task force

MUMBAI: The Maharashtra government which is gearing up for the projected third wave of Covid-19 has decided to set up a pediatric task force. This task force, which will have expert and senior pediatricians and will guide the state to prepare for the projected third wave.
Experts have warned that children and young adults (below 18yrs) will be largely impacted during the third wave as it is this age group that is out of the vaccination net. "We had a detailed meeting with pediatricians on Thursday and it was decided that a task force will be formed. This expert panel will guide the state to frame treatment guidelines, set up health infrastructure for children, "said Tope.
A senior official said that the meeting on Thursday was chaired by chief minister Uddhav Thackeray and it has been decided to ensure that availability of pediatric ventilators, neo-natal ward and even Covid care centres for children should be done.
Meanwhile, Maharashtra government has issued purchase order for three lakh anti-viral Remdesivir vials after completing the necessary documentation and approvals. This was part of a global tender called by the state for importing oxygen related equipment and the injection doses.
Meanwhile, Tope on Friday alleged that most of the pharmaceutical companies are not supplying Remdesivir as per the quota allocated by the Centre to the state “The Union government has fixed the quota of Remdesivir vials to every state. However, most of the pharmaceutical companies are not supplying the vials as per the quantity allocated by the Centre and the Pharmaceuticals ministry should ensure that the allotted quota is delivered,” said Tope.