IMA Issues Advisory Against Covid BF.7 Variant

The Indian Medical Association (IMA) has on Tuesday issued recommendations to state and regional chapters to take essential action in the event of an outbreak of covid-19 in their region. As with previous pandemics, the IMA urged all members and doctors to take proactive measures in their respective regions.

Noting the rapid rise of new variants of covid-19 in the United States and other countries, including Japan, the IMA urges all to take necessary steps to combat the imminent covid outbreak. However, it stressed that the situation in India at the moment is not alarming and that people should not panic and take appropriate precautions as it is better than treatment.

The IMA has ensured that the association's 3.5 million doctors are dedicated to fighting and overcoming the virus across the country. It will also fully cooperate with the government on all kinds of preventive and therapeutic measures.

In addition to its members, the IMA appealed to governments to step up their preparations to deal with the surge in cases. In particular, it called on relevant ministries to ensure the availability of oxygen supplies, ambulances and medicines.

Appropriate behavior and policies include wearing face masks, maintaining social distancing, regular hand washing or cleaning with sanitiser, and avoiding public gatherings such as weddings. People should avoid international travel and seek medical attention for symptoms such as fever, sore throat and cough.