Navi Mumbai: Even though no COVID-19 cases have been reported in Navi Mumbai, the Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC) has taken precautionary steps to ensure preparedness. The civic body’s health department has instructed hospitals to reserve beds for potential cases and issued public health guidelines to prevent the spread of respiratory infections.
In light of recent COVID-19 cases detected in other parts of Maharashtra, NMMC Commissioner Dr. Kailas Shinde has directed the public to remain cautious but avoid panic. Public hospitals in Vashi, Nerul, and Airoli have each reserved five beds for potential COVID patients, while a testing lab has been made operational at the Maasaheb Meenatai Thackeray Hospital in Nerul.
The NMMC has activated its health teams across urban primary health centers and municipal hospitals to provide treatment for individuals with influenza-like illnesses (ILI) and severe acute respiratory infections (SARI). Instructions have also been issued via video conferencing to ensure consistent vigilance across all facilities.
"Private healthcare professionals in the city too have been asked to remain alert and to notify NMMC immediately if they encounter any patients showing symptoms similar to COVID-19. The civic body will continue to implement all directives issued by the central and state governments in a timely manner," a medical health officer from NMMC said.
As part of public awareness efforts, the NMMC has released guidelines on respiratory hygiene. Citizens experiencing coughs or sneezes are urged to cover their mouth and nose with a tissue or handkerchief. Frequent handwashing with soap or alcohol-based sanitizers is strongly recommended.
Those with symptoms such as fever, cough, or sneezing are advised to stay away from public places. Maintaining good hydration and consuming nutritious food is also encouraged. Additionally, residents are adviced to ensure proper ventilation in all indoor spaces to reduce infection risks.
The civic body has cautioned against risky behaviors such as handshaking, reusing tissues, or having close contact with ill individuals. People are also advised not to touch their face frequently, spit in public, or self-medicate without consulting a doctor.
Dr. Shinde emphasized that while the NMMC is fully prepared, public cooperation is essential. He appealed to citizens not to believe in rumors or spread unnecessary fear. Instead, individuals with flu-like symptoms should prioritize personal hygiene, seek medical advice, and visit the nearest NMMC health center or hospital for appropriate care, the officer added.
