Four persons, including a UK tourist and Nepal native, have been placed under quarantine at Goa Medical College and Hospital (GMC) for suspected corona virus – COVID19. While none of the patients are critical, the test reports are awaited for confirmation.

State Epidemiologist Dr Utkarsh Betodkar said the two locals, who have been quarantined, had a history of traveling. “The patients showed symptoms of the virus after which they were immediately quarantined. But all three are doing well. The blood samples have been sent to the Pune Laboratory and the reports are awaited,” he said.

Goa had earlier reported five suspected cases of corona virus, while 53 people were quarantined at home. All tested negative.

GMC Dean Dr Shivanand Bandekar said the hospital will shortly arrange a separate screening facility at the OPD registration to check persons at risk or suspected to have any COVID19 or flu like symptoms.

“This is being done to provide dedicated services to these patients, while avoiding transfer of infections to other patients with comorbid conditions in other OPDs,” the Dean stated.

Bandekar said that as on date, six suspects of COVID-19 have been placed under isolation at ward 113 at GMCH. “Four of them tested negative and were discharged. Reports of other two are awaited,” he said.

“Many of those without symptoms are placed under home quarantine and are all reported healthy till date,” he added

Meanwhile, in view of the corona virus outbreak in the country, the government has put in place a separate outpatients department (OPDs) for foreign passengers in hospitals and a ten-bed isolation ward at the community health center, Sanquelim and TB hospital in Margao. Isolation wards are also in place in GMC and Chicalim hospitals.

GMC has also issued precautionary measures. Private hospitals have been directed to follow government of India guidelines and identify separate isolation facilities in major hospitals as preparedness.

GMC has asked people to maintain social distance. Washing of hands frequently, practicing respiratory hygiene by covering nose and mouth and seeking medical care or visiting the doctor in case of fever, cough and difficulty in breathing are other precautions citizens have been asked to take.

Health authorities have already decided to screen the passengers coming from all countries. The move is as per the directions of Union Ministry for Civil Aviation and Ministry of Health.

Story Credit ;Herald Goa