To Combat Possible Third Wave, Govt Plans National Stockpile Of Life-Saving Drugs And Vital Medical Equipment

Gearing up to tackle the possible third wave of COVID-19 pandemic, the Government is planning to create a national stockpile of life-saving drugs and vital equipment, reports Economic Times.

The Government is in discussions with pharmaceutical and medical device majors in this regard. It could help prevent shortages of critical drugs like remdesivir, tocilizumab, key antibiotics, and devices like oxygenators and pulse oximeters.

It should be noted that presently, the Government is undertaking a weekly review of the status of drugs' availability, and is tracking manufacturing of the black fungus drug, Amphotericin B. Meanwhile, with regards to medical devices, the Government is said to have formed a task force under the Department of Pharmaceuticals to shortlist critical items and seek advice from stakeholders.

The development gains much significance as the scathing second wave during the March-May span saw an unprecedented spurt in the daily case-load which shot up to as high as four lakh a day in May.