Karnataka medical stores to maintain record of people buying drugs for flu-like symptoms

In wake of  coronavirus pandemic, pharmacy shops across Karnataka have w been instructed to record names and contact details of buyers purchasing medicines for fever, cough and common cold. order has been issued by state government to all chemists, druggists and pharmacists across hospitals to te down contact details of all those purchasing medicines for treatment of symptoms like fever (antipyretics and anti-inflammatory), cold (anti-allergic) and cough (anti-tussive).

As per sources, decision was taken after a state-level Technical Expert Committee said that Influenza-like Illness (ILI) and Severely Acute Respiratory Illness (SARI) cases, whose symptoms are similar to that of COVID-l9 should be screened at initial sts of symptoms.

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Details to be sought

As per order, name of buyer, address, landmark (of residence), and mobile number should be provided to pharmacist/chemist who will te and record details. Reportedly,  Health Department has clarified that details of all those who buy medicines to treat cold, cough or fever and related symptoms will be ted.

According to order, drugs include Paracetamol of all dos and strength, Cetirizine, Chlorpheniramine, and all types of cough syrups. 

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Karnataka Passes Epidemic Diseases Ordinance 

On heels of Centre, Karnataka government on Wednesday,  promulgated Karnataka Epidemic Diseases Ordinance, 2020 - similar to one Kerala had passed, giving state government sweeping powers to seal borders, restrict essential services, punish those attacking public servants, property dam etc. Under category of offence, ordinance mentions that 'all offences are cognizable and bailable' and can impose a 3-year jail term and a fine of upto Rs 50000. Karnataka currently has over 425 cases and 17 deaths.

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