Chain of local COVID-19 transmission reduced during total lockdown in Kohima

Kohima: As the fortnight-long total lockdown in the Kohima municipal areas came to an end on Friday, the Kohima District task Force (DTF) analysed its outcome.

According to Dr.Visasieü, the Medical Superintendent (MS) of Naga Hospital Authority Kohima (NHAK), the chain of local transmission among the public has reduced, and awareness created on compliance of the precautionary measures.

The DTF concluded that the lockdown period facilitated the medical team in contact tracing and surveillance, which enabled them to handle the tasks in a more efficient and a better manner.

The Kohima DTF meeting was chaired by Gregory Thejawelie, deputy commissioner (DC) who is also the chairman of the DTF.

Also Read: Nagaland: No extension of total lockdown in Kohima municipal areas

The chief medical officer (CMO) Dr Vezokholu said that during the total lockdown, movement of positive cases to COVID Hospital/Care Centre, sample collection and sealing of virus outbreak areas became easier.

Dr Vezokholu said that people were more aware and disciplined, which helped the medical team track contacts outside the quarantine centres (QCs) effectively.

MS NHAK, Dr Visasieü also added that most of the primary and secondary contacts of Nagaland Legislative Assembly and Chief Minister’s Bungalow were traced, tested and isolated.

DSO Dr Aseno revealed that as a result of the total lockdown, the workload of BSL 3 lab technicians at NHAK and the medical team has reduced. The number of contact tracing for testing outside the QCs also declined, which ultimately resulted in lesser positive cases at COVID Hospital and COVID Care Centre.

On Friday, three new cases of COVID-19 which were reported from Kohima were all from the armed forces.

Also Read: Nagaland: 77 more test positive for COVID-19; state’s tally 2,657

Proposal for setting up Truenat machines in sub-divisions

The DTF also deliberated on the setting up of Truenat testing machines in the sub-divisions under Kohima district and decided to propose to the state government, the installation of Truenat machines in all four Blocks at Tseminyu, Chiephobozou, Sechü Zubza and at TB hospital Khuzama.

Rs 300 as food charge in government-designated quarantine facilities

Regarding the paid quarantine facility which is set to be implemented at K Badze Quarantine Centre from August 10, as per the new SOP notified by the Home Department, the DTF has decided to fix the rate of food at Rs 300 per day for lunch and dinner.

This will be charged from all the returnees/travellers who will be availing the quarantine facility with effect from August 10.

Meanwhile, other issues regarding awareness and sensitization of the general public, measures to check wearing of masks and other safety protocols and also waste management were also taken up for follow up actions.

The meeting was also attended by Legislator in-charge of Kohima district, Advisor Urban Development & Municipal Affairs, Dr Neikiesalie Nicky Kire and other DTF members.