Covid-19 Oxygen Shortage: In order to strengthen India's pandemic management, the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare on Saturday wrote to all states urging them to ensure the maintenance and regular supply of oxygen plants in their respective region. The letter was issued keeping in view the increasing reports of Covid-19 in many countries including neighbouring China.

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"Reliable oxygen supply is critical for saving lives during patient care and COVID-19 management," the official letter said.

According to the health ministry, "Though the Covid cases in the Country are low and not surging as of now, but to face any challenges arising in future, the operationalisation and maintenance of these medical infrastructures is of utmost importance." 

In this regard, it instructed states/UTs for maintenance of oxygen plants, holding continuous mock drill and backup stock maintenance.

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It also asked the states and UTs to make the entire information available in the control room and portal.

The letter asked the concerned departments of the states and UTs to ensure:
i) PSA plants are kept fully functional and regular mock drills are being conducted to check them.
ii) The availability of Liquid Medical Oxygen (LMO) in the health facilities and uninterrupted supply chain for their refilling should be ensured.
iii) Adequate inventory of oxygen cylinders along with backup stocks and robust refilling system is maintained.
iv) Availability of functional life support equipment such as ventilators, bipap and SpO2 systems along with their consumables is there.
v) Oxygen control rooms should be reinvigorated at states/UTs level for prompt resolutions of oxygen related issues and challenges.