Adhering to all the safety measures is the only way to beat the present wave of COVID-19: Dr Sudhakar Kantipudi

Vijayawada, 30th April 2021: The second wave of COVID is having a devastating effect across the country and our state is one of the most badly hit cities. Manipal Hospital, Vijayawada, is seeing close to 200 COVID+ patients per day in Fever Clinic on average. The hospital saw a total of 150 new cases since the second wave in the state. The hospital is carrying out close to 600 COVID tests per day.
 
Speaking about the impact of this second wave, Dr.Ch. Manoj Kumar, Chief of Clinical Services, Manipal Hospital, Vijayawada said, “Every age group is affected in the present wave especially the younger population between 15 – 30 years of age group. There has been a significant effect of COVID-19 in the second wave on children and elder people as compared to the first wave in 2020. The infectivity rate is 4 times more in the present wave. The effect on the lungs is greater now and hence, a lot of people are requiring oxygen. Diarrhoea is the most common symptom in the 2nd wave. People should prioritize RT-PCR tests for COVID-19 testing and not be dependent on home testing kits or Antigen tests as the results may not be as accurate as in an RT-PCR test. For patients who need to undergo dialysis or chemotherapy should not restrict their treatment schedule as it may have a very serious outcome.”
 
Adding to this, Dr. Sudhakar Kantipudi, Hospital Director, Manipal Hospital, Vijayawada said, “The past couple of weeks were overwhelming for our entire state. The situation is very sad and scary at the same time. It is the duty of each one of us to adhere to the safety protocols to make sure that we are doing our part to stop the spread. Look out for persistent headaches, weakness, body pains, conjunctivitis, diarrhoea, cold, cough, fever, breathlessness, etc. which are the most prominent symptoms in the present wave. Do not step out until and unless it is necessary. In such a case, don’t forget to wear a mask and maintain social distancing at all times. Consult a doctor online (video consultation) before visiting the hospital in case you see any of the symptoms.”