Mumbai’s Model of COVID-19 control | Fusion - WeRIndia

The second wave of COVID-19 hit the country terribly. An increase in the number of COVID-19 cases, shortage of beds, medicines, and oxygen cylinders, and increase in the number of deaths are most common in almost all states across the country.

Each state adopted its own strategy to contain the spread of COVID-19 though lockdown and night curfews are the most common methods.

Mumbai, the second-most populous country, was severely affected by COViD-19 with the highest number of cases. Yet, the city successfully dealt with it.

The positivity rate drastically reduced in Mumbai with the collective efforts of officials and the government. Especially the role of Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) is significant in containing the transmission of COVID-19.

BMC Commissioner Iqbal Singh Chahal’s efforts are lauded by many people. The process of COVID-19 monitoring and management was decentralized by the BMC to improve efficiency. For this, an SOS team was created to contact hospitals under their jurisdiction.

Mumbai was also the worst affected by the first wave of COVID-19. It learned many things from the first wave and upgraded its healthcare centres with Liquid Medical Oxygen (LMO) tanks. Only half of these tanks were used in the first wave, which rescued the city in the second wave. Healthcare centres were not dismantled after the first wave. It also helped the city handle the situation effectively.

Besides, hospitals were encouraged to use non-invasive ventilation to avoid wastage of oxygen. War rooms were established with healthcare workers, teachers and other volunteers. They worked 24 hours in shifts. Helpline numbers were provided for the people to get a bed in a hospital. The data relating to COVID-19 from both government and private hospitals was updated from time to time.

Beds were allocated to patients as per their severity. BMC took more than 80 per cent of beds in private hospitals so that patients in critical condition were treated. In addition to that, the number of beds was increased. Many SUVs were refurbished into ambulances.

Thus, Mumbai controlled the situation effectively. The Supreme Court applauded its strategies and suggested other states follow them.

Now, Mumbai is getting ready to fight against the third wave. The city focuses on improving ICU beds and oxygen supply. To treat patients without any problems, an oxygen plant will be given to each hospital.

Photo by Mohammed from Pixahive (Free for commercial use / CC0 Public Domain)

Image Reference: https://pixahive.com/photo/terrace-view-of-mumbai/