Geriatric COVID ward to be opened at Khanapara from July 14

GUWAHATI: The Assam health department has decided to provide customised treatment to COVID-19 patients who are above 65 years at a dedicated geriatric ward here, besides dedicating a hospital for pregnant women and children below 12 years, who are infected with the virus.

“A dedicated geriatric COVID care ward would be opened at Khanapara COVID Care Centre here from July 14 where all kinds of additional medical services, including regular blood sugar tests for diabetics, round-the-clock dedicated medical team and one nurse for every five geriatric patients, customized food, etc will be provided,” state health minister Himanta Biswa Sarma told reporters on Saturday.

“Along with it, we are also offering similar treatment for pregnant women and children below 12 years, who are infected with COVID-19, at a dedicated centre (Bagri Hospital) here from July 14. All tests related to maternity would be conducted. Facilities where children can play would also be provided,” Sarma said.

“Besides, the services of the Caesarian section at MMC Hospital can also be offered to pregnant women who are infected with the virus. Doctors would be performing such surgeries wearing personal protective equipment,” he said.

“In fact, this will be a first-of-its-kind initiative in the country where such treatment under one roof has been dedicated to pregnant women and children infected with COVID-19,” Sarma said.