Afaq Bhat
Srinagar, Nov 11: Despite the prevailing COVID-19 threat, people in Kashmir seem to have forgotten the norms and are behaving as if the pandemic is over.
An analyst while talking to Precious Kashmir said, “The masks have disappeared so has the social distancing. People seem to be least bothered about the fact that COVID-19 is very much present within the community. Everyday people are testing positive and there has been no let up in the casualties. Hospitals are crowded and the situation continues to be grim.”
He said, “The worst part is that the administration too seems to have turned a blind eye towards the COVID-19 threat. Since the day lockdown has been lifted, the administration has shrugged off the responsibility. No attempt is being made by the administration to implement the COVID-19 protocol.”
A medico said, “Experts have warned that the virus can become active in the winter season and the cases can increase. We have to be extra cautious if we want to keep the COVID-19 at bay. The COVID vaccines are in the final trial phases but it will still take time for the protective shields to reach the people.”
It’s in place to mention here that Pfizer recently stated that its vaccine is 90% effective and trials have been successful. “We are aware of the fact that the vaccines are not that far away but all of us should bear in mind that a huge population has to be vaccinated and it will take time for the entire process to get completed. Till then masks, social distancing and sanitizers can serve as vaccines,” the medico added.
He said, “The capacity of the hospitals in Kashmir is limited and if the flow of patients increases in winter it can lead to a catastrophic situation. We can run out of the ventilators and the oxygen supply. People need to bear in mind that precaution is better than cure. According to the recent observations out of 10 COVID positive patients, at least one needs a ventilator support. This number can increase in winters as during the cold season there is an increase in the number of patients having respiratory problems.”
The medico said, “Another factor which we have to bear in mind is that the patients with underlying conditions already have a compromised immunity and they are the most vulnerable class of people. If we have to remain safe we will have to restrict our activities till the winter ends and the vaccine comes. It’s just a matter of a few months before things will fall in place and the pestilence will be almost over. Patience is the key.”
COVID-19: People violate norms, admin in no mood to interfere
