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DR-TB Pathogens Dumped Openly in Aundh
24 Nov
Summary
- Infectious TB samples are being dumped openly on the center's terrace.
- Drug-resistant TB pathogens pose a risk to staff and the public.
- STDC lacks necessary autoclave machines for safe waste disposal.
Serious lapses in biomedical waste management at the State Tuberculosis Training and Demonstration Centre (STDC) in Aundh have created a significant health hazard. Highly infectious drug-resistant tuberculosis (DR-TB) patient samples, intended for testing and research, are reportedly being dumped in the open on the center's terrace, rather than being safely processed. This practice jeopardizes not only laboratory staff but also individuals in numerous other government offices and healthcare facilities housed within the same building.
Health activists have decried the situation as criminal negligence, emphasizing the extreme risk posed by open exposure to drug-resistant TB pathogens. The STDC head cited a lack of required autoclave machines for managing thermocol containers, stating requests for such equipment are pending with higher officials. This inability to adhere to standard biosafety guidelines raises serious questions about the center's protocols.
Authorities have pledged to investigate the matter and ensure waste is disposed of according to established biomedical waste management rules. The current situation highlights an urgent need for improved infrastructure and strict adherence to protocols to prevent the potential spread of dangerous infectious diseases.
