Pune type lab test center to be established soon: Min Dinesh Gundurao

Shivamogga
Health Minister Dinesh Gundurao announced that a Virus Test Center similar to the one in Pune will be established in Shivamogga. The Minister discussed the ongoing monkey disease situation with officials from Shimoga, Udupi, Chikkamagaluru, and Karwar districts, which are most affected by the outbreak.
During the meeting, Gundurao emphasized the importance of taking precautionary measures to prevent the spread of the disease, as there is no specific medicine for it. He instructed district officials to increase awareness about areas with higher incidences of the disease and to conduct post-mortems on any deceased monkeys, ensuring that results are obtained promptly. Local Gram Panchayats will be involved in these efforts.
The Minister also urged the authorities to stock up on DMP oil and distribute it to homes with school children in these four districts. He confirmed plans to upgrade the Shivamogga lab test center to a Grade 3 facility, alongside the establishment of a similar lab center in Sirsi.
Additionally, specialized KFD vehicles will be provided for these districts, and free treatment for monkey disease will be offered at Manipal Hospital for BPL and APL cardholders. The Monkey Disease Lab Test Center in Sagar will also be revived, with more research focused on treatment and laboratory testing. Gundurao further stated that efforts are underway to upgrade the Sagar Sub-Divisional Hospital to a district hospital level.