Shillong, Apr 22: Deputy Chief Minister, Prestone Tynsong on Wednesday denied the allegation that the state is not prepared to tackle the COVID-19 situation.

“To say that we are not prepared is totally wrong. The government is ready (to face the challenge) and is trying to do the best that it can (to contain the disease),” Tynsong told reporters after a review meeting.

He was reacting to the statement made by the health minister, AL Hek on preparedness of the government.

Stating that Shillong agglomeration has been categorized as ‘hot-spot’, he said, “The government is on the job to prevent any further spread of the virus to rural areas.”

The deputy chief minister further informed that the state has received a total of 64,468 personal protection equipments (PPEs).

“So far, 20,905 PPEs have been distributed to the district medical & health officers (DM&HOs) of the eleven districts in the state,” he said.

Of these, 9,121 PPEs have been distributed in East Khasi Hills, 1,185 – West Khasi Hills, 725 – South West Khasi HIlls, 1,660 – Ri Bhoi, 1,212 – West Jaintia Hills, 762 – East Jaintia Hills, 600 – North Garo Hills, 900 – South Garo Hills, 1055 – South West Garo Hills, and 895 – East Garo Hills.

Tynsong also informed that 200 PPEs were also distributed to each of the private hospitals which include Supercare, H Gordon Robert hospital, Woodland hosptial, Nazareth hospital and Children’s hospital.

Meanwhile, the deputy chief minister appealed to all citizens not to misuse the government’s relaxation order for allowing the public to buy essential commodities.

“All must understand that prevention is better than cure,” he said.

On the concern raised over the delay to test people who are under home quarantine, Tynsong however clarified that testing is required only for those who are symptomatic.

“I request them that if they have any sign of cough or fever, to immediately inform 108 helpline. Therefore, I also urge people to cooperate with the government by completing the quarantine period fully, and not to worry,” he said.