Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi (HB)
Udupi, Mar 6: Public awareness programme on ‘Out of Hospital Cardiac Arrest and Immediate Support’ was launched by Department of Cardiology, KMC; Kasturba hospital, Manipal and Department of CVT, MCHP, MAHE Manipal at Nutan Ravindra Mantapa, MGM College Kunjibettu, Udupi here on March 6.
Dr M G Vijay principal, MGM College Udupi inaugurated the programme. He appreciated the team and wished them all the best. Dr Sudhir Chandra Suda, DHO Udupi district stressed the relevance of the programme. He also explained more about adopting preventive measures regarding Coronavirus infection.
"The public must take certain precautions while in public, with regards to sneezing and coughing. There is a lack of awareness about basic manners among the public," he said.
"Coronavirus now is named as 'COVID-19'. People should approach physicians when they experience flu-like symptoms. According to an observation, the coastal atmosphere which is humid will not allow the virus to spread," Chandra said.
"There is no shortage of N95 mask in the district. If the public found some Coronavirus symptoms or if anyone has arrived from abroad with the same symptoms, just inform the district health department or call the helpline number 104," the DHO urged the public.
Dr PLNG Rao pro-vice-chancellor, faculty of health sciences, MAHE Manipal presided over the programme. In his address, he said, "We could save many lives under threat. We can save who will get collapsed by cardiac arrest. Core groups should be developed in the college to raise awareness and spread the message. The students need to be aware of life-saving skills to help people in need.
DR K Krishnananda Nayak associate professor and HOD CVT department, MCHP Manipal gave an overview of the programme. "Only a small number of people get cardiac arrest at their home and many of them get it in a public place which is around 70 per cent. Unfortunately, there is no basic knowledge about this in the country. Understanding the need for awareness this event has been organized to sensitize the public. All have to learn life support skills to save lives," he said.
Dr Avinash Shetty medical superintendent, Kasturba Hospital, Manipal said, "First aid and basic life support education should be taught to everyone. It will help in saving many lives."
Dr Arun Maiya dean, MCHP Manipal, Dr Tom Devasia professor and HOD, Cardiology, KMC Manipal were present. Dr Sharath K Rao dean, KMC Manipal welcomed the gathering.