PUNE: To answer the queries related to COVID-19, the district administration has set up a dedicated helpline ‘104’ for people to clear their doubts. While addressing a press meet, Pune Divisional Commissioner Deepak Mhaisekar said that people should not panic as there are no positive cases of COVID-19 reported in Maharashtra yet. “We are ready and equipped to handle the situation,” added Mhaisekar.
District Collector Naval Kishore Ram was also present at the meet.
Stressing on the need for personal and community hygiene, Mhaisekar said that people should avoid frequenting public places. The divisional commissioner said that he will be directing all the Pune hotels to furnish details of any sick foreigners residing at their hotel.
Collector Naval Kishore Ram said, “There is no need to worry or get scared. The mortality rate of COVID-19 positive cases is below two per cent. Similarly, no person can be called COVID-19 positive until the government declares it. The tests are done at NIV, Pune and so people should not spread rumours related to COVID-19.” Speaking about a ban on events at big hotels and other places, Ram said, “Currently, there are no directions but considering the timely situation we can ban such events.”
Speaking on the number of people screened till date, Mhaisekar said that about 332 passengers who arrived at international airport were screened of which 150 persons have been kept under observation. “The observation period is of 14 days as it takes about 14 days time for COVID-19 symptoms to reflect on infected patients. Our team of doctors keep a watch on such people,” added Mhaisekar.
The administration also decided to hold awareness camps about COVID-19 and will also spread posters and pamphlets to make people aware of the virus and its spread. The divisional commissioner said that apart from Naidu Hospital there are private hospitals in Pune and Pimpri Chinchwad who have shown interest in providing isolation wards for suspected patients.
CALL FOR ANSWERS
Control room number for COVID-19 queries: 104/ 02026127394 (8 am to 10 pm)
