NHM stir hits testing, vax drive in Punjab

Tribune News Service

Chandigarh, December 13

With the government failing to find a solution to the National Health Mission (NHM) workers’ strike, the healthcare services, including Covid sampling and vaccination, have been severely impacted in the state.

Around 11,000 NHM workers have been protesting for around a month seeking regularisation of services. The situation is such that even the Government of India has expressed concern over the issue. The government, including the Chief Minister, had held several rounds of talks with the NHM Employees’ Union, but despite assurances they have failed to take any decision.

In a recent communication to the Punjab Government, Union Health Secretary Rajesh Bhushan flagged the issue of a decline in testing. He said though there was a drop in the number of cases, in the absence of sustained levels of sufficient testing, it was difficult to determine the true level of infection spread.

He said Punjab had reported 24,300 average daily tests between November 16 and 22. “This is in stark contrast to a high of 71,257 average daily tests conducted between May 17 and 23.”

He said with a majority of countries seeing multiple surges in Covid cases in recent times and a few developed countries facing even fourth and fifth wave despite high levels of Covid vaccination, there was a need for continued vigil given the unpredictable and contagious nature the disease.

“Hence, all efforts must be made to preserve the gains made so far to prevent deterioration of Covid-19 scenario across the country,” he said.

The central government has also asked the state to maintain high levels of testing, given the recent increase in travelling and events such as marriages, festive celebrations and vacation.