CIHSR produces Personal Protective Equipment

Nagaland

27th March 2020

Morung Express News
Dimapur | March 26

At a time when the whole world is grappling with the COVID-19 outbreak, shortage of Personal Protective Equipments (PPEs) like helmet, goggles, facemask and gowns for doctors and other medical personnel has become one of the most pressing concerns.

With shortage of PPE reported all over the country, there are apprehensions that if the number of COVID-19 cases shoot up, then the medical fraternity would be overwhelmed.

In such a scenario, one can only imagine the fate of Nagaland state with its rickety medical infrastructure and healthcare system.

However, a ray of hope has emerged vis a vis Nagaland’s fight against Novel Corona Virus.

Christian Institute of Health Sciences & Research (also commonly known as Referral Hospital), Dimapur, has come up with a novel initiative to produce their own PPEs to brace up for the battle against the virus.

“We are trying to respond to unprecedented humanitarian crisis. Full protection of frontline health care worker is must for caring very sick patient in this pandemic. PPE shortage is reported all over the country so small effort has been made to produce within the hospital,” Dr Clement Momin, medical superintendent CIHSR, told The Morung Express.

On material used for the PPE, Dr. Momim said they are using a waterproof surgical cloth, which is impervious to bacteria and viruses, and the hospital staffs who have tailoring skills are volunteering to stitch the PPE. He also said PU (Polyurethane) coated nylon fabric used for making umbrella is also a good option for making PPE.

Informing that the approximate cost of PPEs would come to Rs 200 per piece, Momim said they have already run out of material after making some 30 pieces.

“In case of an outbreak of disease, the need of PPE will be in thousands. The material suppliers are from Guwahati and because of the lock down goods are stranded. I would appeal to Government authorities to ensure interstate movement of essential medical goods and drugs,” the MS added.