GMC Jammu becomes 1st hospital to deploy armed security personnel in emergency premises
KD NEWS SERVICE
SRINAGAR, Aug 23: The Government Medical College (GMC), Jammu, has made history by becoming the first hospital in India to deploy armed security personnel in its emergency premises for the protection of medical staff.
This development follows the tragic rape and murder of a female doctor in Kolkata, which sparked widespread demands for increased security measures in hospitals across the country.
An official of the GMC Jammu informed that the hospital has deployed 12 armed guards from the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) to ensure the safety of its medical staff. He said the step was taken after thorough discussions between the GMC administration and local police authorities.
The security deployment includes four guards in each shift, consisting of one Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI) and three sepoys, he said, adding that the shifts are organised in eight-hour rotations to provide continuous 24-hour security.
The Kolkata incident called for the need for enhanced security measures for medical workers nationwide.
The official said that similar security measures will be extended to other healthcare facilities soon to ensure the safety and protection of medical staff across the country.
“This is a step toward addressing the safety concerns of medical workers and ensuring a secure working environment in healthcare facilities,” he added—(KNO)
(Box with above news)
No need to panic about monkeypox: Doctors assure public, urge precautions
Officials say healthcare system prepared to handle cases if any
KD NEWS SERVICE
SRINAGAR, Aug 23: Doctors in Jammu & Kashmir have assured the public that there is no need to panic about monkeypox, despite concerns about the disease spreading in various parts of the world.
They, however, urged staying vigilant, maintaining good hygiene and immediately reporting any unusual symptoms to healthcare providers.
Some doctors said that no cases of monkeypox have been reported in J&K.
While monkeypox is contagious, it is not as easily transmissible as COVID-19, they said, adding that basic precautions can effectively prevent its spread.
A top health official the situation is under control and the healthcare system is prepared to handle any potential cases. “Necessary medical care is available and facilities have been set up to manage and treat any possible monkeypox cases,” he said.
The health infrastructure in Jammu & Kashmir is well-equipped to address any challenges related to monkeypox, and authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, the official said, adding that sufficient stocks of PPE kits, N95 masks, surgical gloves and other protective gear are available.
Officials from SKIMS Soura said the hospital administration is on alert and has taken various measures to face any eventuality.
“An isolation facility with a bed capacity of six, which can be scaled up to 30 if needed, has been established. Testing capacity has been enhanced, and treatment modalities have been devised according to recommended guidelines. A dedicated control room has been set up for monkeypox management, also functioning as a helpline centre with the number 0194-2403679,” they said.
Guidelines for healthcare workers have been prepared to manage screening and infection control, especially at airports and railway stations, they added.
Secretary, Health & Medical Education Dr Syed Abid Shah has directed heads of departments to conduct mock drills across the Union Territory to ensure that all health personnel are adequately trained in logistics and transportation protocols related to potential monkeypox cases, an official said.
He said all stakeholders have been advised to take proactive measures to ensure full preparedness to handle any situation—(KNO)
