Bengaluru, May 18 (Karnataka News):
The All India Organisation of Chemists and Druggists (AIOCD) has called for a nationwide bandh of medical shops on May 20 in protest against the online sale of medicines, drug trade and various issues related to public health protection.
In this context, with the aim of maintaining public safety, availability of essential medicines and law and order, the Department of Food Safety and Drug Administration, Government of Karnataka, has issued a notification, providing important guidelines to the public and various departments during the lockdown period.
Precautions to be taken by the public:
Buy medicines in advance: Patients suffering from serious diseases like diabetes, blood pressure, asthma, heart-related diseases, epilepsy, cancer should buy essential medicines in advance and keep a sufficient stock.
Availability of emergency medications: It is advisable to purchase insulin, inhalers, life-saving medications, and pediatric medications in advance as needed.
Don’t panic: Avoid buying or hoarding medicines in large quantities out of unnecessary panic. Have prescription cards from registered doctors for controlled medicines and cooperate with the pharmacy staff.
In cases of medical emergencies, nearby hospitals, emergency medical services, or government health centers should be contacted immediately.
Note to chemists and druggists:
It has been advised to cooperate in the supply of essential and life-saving medicines in the public interest and to ensure that there is no shortage of medicines for emergency medical services.
No rumors or misinformation should be spread through social media or other media.
Responsibilities of Food Safety and Drug Administration Officers:
The availability of essential and life-saving medicines across the state should be closely monitored.
Coordination should be done with hospitals, emergency medicine stores, wholesalers, and the district administration to ensure that there is no shortage of essential medicines.
Reports on drug supply and public health conditions should be submitted to the helpline set up at the central office every two hours to the superiors.
Precautions for the Police Department:
Necessary measures should be taken to prevent forced shop closures, intimidation, and disruption to the public.
The smooth movement of ambulances, emergency medical supply vehicles, and healthcare personnel should be facilitated.
Immediate legal action should be taken against incidents of rumor-mongering, violence, or disturbance of public peace.
The Commissioner of the Department of Food Safety and Drug Administration said in a statement that all stakeholders should act responsibly to protect public health, patient safety, and social harmony.
