Kozhikode: Indian Medical Association suggests people in flood zone areas to carry a medical kit including ORS (oral rehydration solutions), paracetamol, cetirizine, betadine ointment, salbutamol and clotrimazole ointment.
IMA has also formed a team to provide psychological counselling and assistance to overcome the trauma."The havoc caused by nature's fury can cause panic and stress among people; not everyone will be traumatised. The need of the hour is to have an open conversation with people and conduct brief assessments," said Dr Abdul Salam of the Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences.
"Their concerns may be temporary, such as anxiety over their kin and kith. The key is to provide them with immediate solution only with the right information."
"We face deficiency in the number of government doctors and health care personnel. IMA has released a circular alerting all doctors to provide immediate service in need. About 5,000 members are working on emergency mode to curb the human resources deficiency," said Dr M.E. Sugathan of the IMA.
"In the case of providing medicines for lifestyle diseases like hypertension and diabetes, we have an arrangement. 0471 2741166 is the helpline number for medical assistance or provision of drugs."
Inquires on the usage of menstrual cups were also high.
"The promotion of menstrual cups in relief camps is not advisable. First-time users may not be compliant to the cups in this time of panic and stress," said P.C. Arjun, IMA state convener and red cycle member.
"Even though it is environment-friendly and minimises waste, it is not ethical to impose its usage now. The knowledge of right size, tip as well as the habit, sterilising and privacy are the prerequisites of the usage of menstrual cups. Provision of sanitary napkins is timely now."
