COVID-19: Manipur conducts mass testing of drug users in Imphal

Imphal: Considering the drug users are among the most vulnerable sections of society, especially during this time of COVID-19 pandemic, the Manipur government on Monday conducted mass testing of street-based drug users in Imphal to contain the spread of coronavirus in the state.

Organised by the social welfare department of the state in collaboration with FINGODAP Manipur chapter and Drug Users’ Federation for Human Rights and Justice, a total of 33 drug users, including four women, turned up at the special camp.

“Those suffering from alcohol or drug use disorders are likely to experience intense craving as well as withdrawal symptoms with potentially-serious and life-threatening consequences. They are also likely to be a potential source of virus spread, if they are not taken care of in time,” said social welfare director Ngangom Uttam Singh.