‘Carelessness can lead to a catastrophe, winter is coming’

Afaq Bhat
Srinagar, Oct 25: Life in Kashmir seems to have returned to normal as people don’t fear COVID-19 anymore it appears that they have learned to live with the virus.
There is a huge rush in the markets and only a few people are seen wearing a mask. People are not following the COVID-19 SOPs and it appears that many of us have become complacent.
A medico while talking to Precious Kashmir said, “The COVID positive patients, who are visiting the hospitals are no more scared. They are ready to fight it out. But the people should understand that we can save ourselves from getting infected if we take precautions. We need to remember that the virus has not gone anywhere and its present everywhere.”
He said, “People need to remain patient as the COVID vaccine is on the way and once it comes, it will act as a protective shield. Till then we have to follow the COVID-19 norms. If we ignore these SOPs we will end up in big mess as the cases can multiply in the winter season.”
The medico said that there are reports that the COVID has returned with a bang in the countries that are located in the northern hemisphere and were temperatures have started declining. “Complacency can lead to a catastrophe,” he added.
An official said that the preparations are on to get the vaccines from foreign countries as well the ones which are being manufactured within the country. “The government is hoping that once the vaccine comes situation will ease out further and life will become normal. Till the shield comes we have to remain vigilant. Experts have warned that the virus can behave erratically in winters. J&K administration is equipping the health facilities and hospitals to face any exigency.”
A doctor said, “In winter cases can increase. The asymptomatic patients can remain in home quarantine but the ones who will face breathing problems and others with underlying conditions can face a tough time. I am not sure about the numbers which the hospitals in Kashmir can accommodate. We have been told that the facilities are being put in place in the hospitals but we don’t know how the situation will emerge in winter. It’s too early to say anything. But people cannot just think that they are virus proof and the COVID-19 will spare them. All of us need to sit back and recollect what all we have undergone since March this year when the pandemic broke out. Patience is the key and we shouldn’t lose it. We have to be careful, acting carelessly can prove disastrous.”

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