Chhattisgarh Health Secretary Niharika Barik Singh on Friday sought from the Central government facilities for TrueNat machines for private hospitals in the campaign againt Covid-19.
Niharika Singh made the request to Union Cabinet Secretary Rajiv Gauba when he interacted in detail with all state Chief Secretaries regarding the impact of the pandemic on public health.
Holding a video-conference, Gauba reviewed the Covid-19 status in each state and gave directions to contain the spread of the coronavirus.
Niharika Singh informed Gauba that six districts in the state have reported more cases of Covid-19.
To increase the quantum of testing, she sought facilities for TrueNat machines for private hospitals.
TrueNat Machines have been approved by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) for carrying out confirmatory tests for Covid-19. It is used to screen patients. Earlier, the machine was developed for detecting tuberculosis.
Gauba directed the ICMR Director General to take immediate action on the request.
He directed all the states to expedite testing for Covid-19. If a patient is found positive, immediate treatment facilities should be ensured. The Cabinet Secretary also reviewed the status of the Intensive Care Unit beds and availability of ventilators.