ONLY 10-15% COVID PATIENTS REQUIRE OXYGEN & CRUCIAL DRUGS, DON’T HOARD: EXPERTS

NEW DELHI: Only about 10-15% case of Covid-19 require oxygen therapy and medicines such as antiviral remdesivir, in a hospital, leading health experts said on Sunday in an attempt to address people’s concerns amid the raging second wave of the pandemic in the country.

“As high as 85-90% Covid-19 positives get mild or no symptoms. Therefore, there no need to hoard injections like remdesivir, or oxygen cylinders as it leads to unnecessary panic buying, and shortages. Most people get mild symptoms such as fever, cough, sore throat and need symptomatic treatment along with steam and yoga,” said Dr Randeep Guleria, director, All India institute of Medical Sciences, Delhi.

According to experts, Covid-19 symptoms usually last for about a week or 10 days. Only about 10-15% of the positive cases run the risk of developing severe infection, with the need for oxygen or other medicines such as steroids and remdesivir.

“Just about 5% cases turn critical and require stronger medicines and even ventilator. Just because you get a positive report doesn’t mean you have to get admitted or start yourself on oxygen therapy; as indiscriminate use without actual requirement will lead to unnecessary shortages of essential supplies,” said Dr Guleria. He reiterated that drugs such as remdesivir are a part of investigational therapy, and the World Health Organization’s solidarity trial showed no benefits in terms of death and reduced hospital stay.

In a US study; however, it was shown that if given to moderate to severe patients, there is a chance hospital stay can reduce to a certain extent.

Just about 5% cases turn critical and require stronger medicines

AIIMS director