Disconnect between two schools : Draw from each other's strength
- The Sangai Express Editorial :: March 16, 2015 -

Making things worse. The issues facing the State and the people are worrisome but equally, if not more, disturbing is the utter failure to pool in thoughts and strike a common chord.

Swine Flu or H1N1 has already claimed two lives and there is no guarantee that things will improve, though the Government seems to be sending out the message that it is serious.

The seriousness however falls apart in the face of the seeming disconnect between two schools of medicine.

As things stand today, the people are a confused lot.

While the AYUSH Department or the homeopathy school of medicines has gone ahead with the stand that consuming Arsenic Album 30 helps in preventing Swine Flu, the State Health Department or the allopathy school has negated this claim.

What is more is the widespread talk doing the round that consuming allopathic medicine for any ailment will neutralise the gain of homeopathy medicine, read Arsenic Album 30.

Does this mean that patients on daily medicines for hypertension or diabetes cannot take Arsenic Album 30 ?

Time for the Government to come out with a clear cut stand and not leave anything to chance.

If there is anything wrong in consuming homeopathic medicines with allopathic medicines then let this be spelt out.

If there is no harm, then let it also be spelt out.

Makes no sense to confuse the people when something as scary as Swine Flu is a reality. Not the time for one upmanship.

The issue here is public health and this is certainly not the time to champion one’s belief or cause but work for the safety of everyone concerned.

The State Health Department has been on a publicity drive to educate the public on Swine Flu.

Time now to be more clear on whether it is okay or not to consume homeopathic medicine along with allopathic drugs.

Panic. Definitely the Government is right in asserting that the public should not panic, but it is only right that the Government does something concrete to dispel the fear of uncertainty.

And clearing any doubt on what medicines to take should be its first task.

It is about public safety and human lives, nothing less. These are trying times.

On top of the Swine Flu cases is the story coming in that Bird Flu has broken out in certain parts of neighbouring Myanmar.

Looking at the porous border as well as the trade activities between Manipur and Myanmar, it may not be long before Bird Flu too comes here.

All the more reason for everyone to be on their toes. The State Government should start acting now.

Adequate measures should be taken up at Moreh to check the poultry that comes here from Myanmar.

Being vigilant does not cost anything. All that is needed is sincerity and honesty.

Not the time to be casual about what is happening across the border.

Manipur has already witnessed what Bird Flu is about and prevention is certainly the best option.

Swine Flu now with the potential of Bird Flu hanging heavy in the air.

Time for the public as well as the Government to be cautious and not treat anything lightly.