Udupi district reports maternal deaths are reducing

Udupi district reports maternal deaths are reducing

Mangalore Today News Network

Udupi, May 21, 2016: Speaking at the review meeting of the district Health department at the Zilla Panchayat, DHO District Health Officer  Dr Rohini said that every possible measure has been taken to curb maternal deaths in the district.

The DHO said that last year, at least 10 maternal deaths were reported in the district, while the number has come down to two, this year. She said pregnant women are provided nutritious food and treatment at hospitals. Underweight pregnant women are given iron injections along with protein-rich food supplement and eggs. Institutional delivery is ensured for most pregnant women, all steps to reduce fatalities during delivery are in place.

Udupi DC Dr Vishal directed the DHO to initiate measures to ensure zero maternal deaths in the district. He said that Udupi is a literate district and hence no steps should be spared in curtailing maternal deaths.  "Pregnant women needing attention should be identified and all possible treatment should be extended to them. The needy people are in urban areas and slums as well," the DC said. The department has ample facilities to take care of mothers and children, he mentioned.

Infant mortality : About 60 infant mortality cases were reported from December 2015 to April 2016, the DC stressed on the need to study causes behind the deaths. DHO Dr. Rohini said that the increasing deaths of newly born during deliveries and underweight premature babies are some of the causes behind the increasing infant mortality rate.

The DC instructed the officials to take measures to avoid the shortage of blood and said the Red Cross had been sensitized regarding this direction. The blood banks should initiate action against wasting the stored blood, he said.

He said the Karnataka Private Medical Establishment Act should be effectively implemented and stressed on early disposal of files.  The funds earmarked for children infected with HIV should be released with out delay.