Regulation

Use of Auto Disable Syringes made Mandatory

AD syringes eliminate the possibility of reuse and hence the risk of infection through blood

The Directorate General of Health Services has made it mandatory for all states to use Auto Disable (AD) syringes in all Government hospitals and health centres with reference to April 1, 2009.

The action came in the wake of a national study conducted by the Indiaclen Programme Evaluation Network on behalf of the Ministry of Health, Government of India, and World Bank, entitled 'Assessment of Injection Practices in India' in 2002 - 2005 which brought to light that in India nearly two thirds of the injections are administered in an unsafe manner and also all the injections administered in India, one third carry a potential risk of transmitting blood borne virus. AD syringes eliminate the possibility of reuse and hence the risk of infection through blood.

Marc Koska, Founder of the SafePoint Trust UK, who promotes the use of AD syringes was also there when the directorate was issued. He said, "This leadership decision will literally save millions of lives in coming years and also build trust between doctors and patients."

Health Minister Anbumani Ramadoss announced his intention to send letters to all Chief Ministers and Governors of all States of following the leadership provided by the central Government hospitals in using AD syringes in their state-owned public health facilities.

He also mentioned that he would like to make it mandatory for all privately- owned hospitals and clinics in the second phase to use AD syringes.

Sonal Vij