States to conduct mock drills next week to review Covid preparedness

Specific focus on oxygen plants, ventilators, logistics and human resources; aim is to check whether the equipment is in running condition, or needs refurbishment

Stepping up vigil, states in India will now undertake mock-drills across health units next week to ensure the operational readiness of Covid-19 dedicated facilities, with specific focus on oxygen plants, ventilators, logistics and human resources. The idea is to check whether the equipment is in running condition, or needs refurbishment.

Sanjay Khandare, Maharashtra health secretary, said the mock drill will only be conducted in government units.

India is reporting 153 daily fresh cases on average, and there is no concern at present about the pressure on healthcare infrastructure, even as researchers predict that neighbouring China’s deaths could touch millions.

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