WHO criticizes India over issues faced by Migrants during Lock Down

On March 30, 2020, the World Health Organization condemned countries including India for not taking actions to address the concerns of daily workers and migrant workers.

Highlights

The organization had also condemned certain states in India like Bihar and Rajasthan for suspending their routine immunization programmes. Also, the closure of outpatient departments in government hospitals especially in AIIMS was of great concern to the organization.

WHO on Anti-Malarial Drug

Only India and USA are currently using the Anti-Malarial Drug called Hydroxychloroquine on a larger scale. The drugs are prescribed for asymptomatic persons that are in close contact with the COVID-19 patients. India has also banned the export of the drug adopting wider usage.

However, WHO believes that the safety of the drug to use it against COVID-19 is still not confirmed. Small observation studies show that the drug shortens illness caused by the virus.

Suggestions

The WHO recommends balanced approach in dealing with the virus. The organization recommends the approach of United Kingdom of using 20,000 retired health workers. Also, it calls upon the companies to talk to the companies to increase their production.

Month: Current Affairs - March, 2020