New Delhi : 40 healthcare staff found positive in one hospital

NEW DELHI: At least 40 healthcare workers, including doctors, nurses and OT technicians, have tested positive for Covid-19 at Babu Jagjivan Ram (BJRM) hospital in Jahangirpuri in northeast Delhi. They have been admitted to Lok Nayak Hospital (LNJP) and Rajiv Gandhi Super Specialty Hospital (RGSSH), sources said.

“The source of infection is still unknown,” said an official, adding that the 100-bedded hospital has put all services on hold following the scare.

The first case of Covid-19 among healthcare workers in the hospital, the official said, was confirmed on April 18 when a doctor posted in the emergency ward tested positive for coronavirus.

“When tests were carried out on other doctors and nurses posted in the ward, they too came positive. Finally, the hospital got everyone tested and the results are in front of you,” said a resident doctor, adding that almost half of the hospital is now down with Covid-19.

“My test reports came on April 20. I had fever so I was shifted to LNJP Hospital. Here, I also developed respiratory distress and cough. It is improving now,” the 25-year-old doctor added.

The family members of the healthcare workers are also being tested for the disease, said hospital authorities.

Jahangirpuri is one of the worst affected areas due to Covid-19. Six cops deployed in the area tested positive for the viral infection on Tuesday. Two days ago, 46 people living in H Block tested positive. While the source of infection in the area is yet to be ascertained, locals say the disease spread from a woman who died on April 8, and her coronavirus test came positive on April 10.

“31 persons from her extended family and neighbourhood were also found positive for Covid-19,” local authorities said.

“The government must implement lockdown rules in the BJRM hospital area strictly to contain the further spread of the disease,” said a local resident.