Afaq Bhat
Srinagar, Aug 18: Doctors and other members of the medical fraternity catching COVID-19 have created ripples in Kashmir.
Death of a renowned chest specialist from Srinagar’s old city has shocked the people. The COVID is hitting the frontline warriors hard. Prominent among those who have been infected due to the virus include, Head of Department of CD Hospital in Srinagar, which was designated as the COVID-care facility soon after the epidemic broke out. The medico has recovered and is back on job. Last week president of Doctors Association of Kashmir, who during the past 6 months has been continuously making people aware about how dangerous this virus is, also tested positive and is still undergoing treatment.
Besides these doctors many others from medical fraternity have fallen prey to COVID-19, a 40-year doctor from north Kashmir became the first case of re-infection and died even after getting recovered.
A doctor while talking to Precious Kashmir said, “The medicos in Kashmir have been working in very difficult conditions. When the pandemic broke out doctors were not even provided PPE kits. They had to arrange the safety kits on their own. There were many instances where doctors had to face the ire of people for none of their fault. We were targeted without any reason.”
An expert said, “Doctors have been at the receiving end since the day pandemic has broken out in the Valley. Despite massive awareness campaigns, people didn’t follow the COVID norms. In the initial days they were unable to understand the importance of wearing masks, maintaining social distancing and hand hygiene. This also led to the sharp increase in the COVID-19 cases in Kashmir.”
He said, “The doctors in Kashmir have done a commendable job and have worked tirelessly. They have treated patients without any specific line of treatment. At present situation is better as the recovery rate has gone upto 70%. The COVID warriors who have laid down their lives while fighting this deadly virus will always be remembered for their selfless service to the human race.”
An official said, “Initially there were many problems but along with the passage of time many issues have been resolved. We are ensuring that doctors and other members of the medical fraternity are given all the possible facilities. Everyone is aware of the fact doctors are working in a very difficult situation and are trying their best to save the human lives. The government won’t let them down and no stone will be left unturned to protect them.”
