To respond to the possible third wave of COVID-19 and rising mucormycosis, commonly known as ‘black fungus’ cases, the Uttar Pradesh government today announced setting up 50-100 pediatric beds in every district of the state. These pediatric ICU beds with all the resources will work as ‘Raksha Kavach’ in hospitals in every district, reads the official press statement. 

In a high level meeting today, May 20, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath directed officials to make arrangements at the hospitals on the lines of ICU to ensure top class treatment. 

Experts fear the third COVID19 wave will affect children more adversely. Regarding the preparedness to tackle a possible third wave, the State Child Rights Protection Commission’s chairperson Vishesh Gupta informed that Paediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) ward will be established within a week in Pratapgarh with 30 beds, Prayagraj with 25 beds, Jalaun with 10 beds and Kaushambi with 20 beds.

The work of setting up PICU is also underway on war-footing in Jhansi, Amethi, Mathura, Moradabad, Ayodhya, Gorakhpur, Meerut, Chitrakoot, Lucknow and Azamgarh, reads the media release.

“These beds will be small in size and have railing on the sides. Severely infected children will be provided with treatment and oxygen,” reads the press release.

During today’s high level meeting, the chief minister also directed the officials to ensure sufficient quantity of medical aids required for the treatment of ‘black fungus’.

He has asked officials to ensure adequate availability of all essential medicines by communicating with health experts regarding the cause and treatment method of black fungus. A letter will be sent to the central government requesting to increase the allocation, the chief minister said.