Jharkhand News: COVID lab at MMCH Daltonganj to be reactivated

THE JHARKHAND STORY NETWORK

Daltonganj, June 2: The virology and COVID Diagnostic Laboratory at Medinirai Medical College and Hospital (MMCH), Daltonganj — inactive since 2022 — is set to be revived following fresh directives from the state government in view of rising concerns over a new COVID variant.

Established at a cost of ₹2.5 crore, the lab had played a crucial role during the pandemic, processing up to 1,400 samples a day at its peak.

On Monday, MMCH Principal Dr. P.N. Mahto and Palamu Civil Surgeon Dr. Anil Kumar inspected the facility to assess its current state.

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The laboratory bore clear signs of neglect, with dust, cobwebs, and termite-infested wooden furniture. Though essential utilities like water and electricity are available, the sophisticated equipment now requires urgent servicing. Consumables for RTPCR testing also need to be restocked.

A lab official assured the authorities that operations could resume within 15 days.

Civil Surgeon Dr. Anil Kumar informed that he has requested Medical Superintendent Dr. Ajay Kumar to establish a dedicated OPD for patients showing symptoms of influenza-like illness (ILI) or severe acute respiratory infections (SARI).

He added that a daily patient count from this OPD, including contact details, will be uploaded each evening for follow-up and monitoring.

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Dr. Ajay Kumar confirmed that the OPD for ILI and SARI will be made functional soon. He also noted that there is an adequate supply of symptomatic medicines and a large stock of personal protective equipment (PPE) available at the hospital.

Meanwhile, Hospital Manager Sunit Srivastav has been tasked with locating and reassigning personnel who previously operated in the lab during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2021.