After the news of coronavirus outbreak at few parts in India spread, no doubt panic has gripped almost all. WhatsApp forwards and social media posts have added to this fear.
Unverified forwards in Fcebook and Twitter let loose a panic among all. Meanwhile there were long queues in medical shops to buy masks and hand sanitizers. Union Health Minister Harsh Vardhan sought strict action against those charging inflated prices for face masks. His comments come in the wake of shortage of masks and sanitizers in the market and chemists charging higher than the normal price as the coronavirus scare rises.
The Union Health department held a meeting to review preparedness for managing coronavirus outbreak and stressed on the importance of states keeping quarantine facilities, isolation wards and testing labs in active readiness. So far, India has confirmed over 30 cases cases of the infection while thousands have been put under surveillance.
There is an urgent need to communicate the masses and rasing awareness about steps to prevent spread of the virus. The Centre should steps on war-footiong and should hold periodic discussions with State government and various health agencies in ensuring this. Information education and communication campaigns should be taken up to deal with misconceptions about the ailment.