The number of coronavirus cases in Maharashtra continues to rise in the state. The problems of the health department has increased as it battles shortage of oxygen and Remdesivir at many places amid the rising covid cases.
Amid the surging covid cases, Maharashtra health department has urges citizens of the state to take 'six-minute walk test' to check the functioning of lungs.
The district administrations have been informed to create awareness among the citizens of the test which can be conducted inside house and by those with symptoms of COVID-19.
Here's how you can take the covid test by just walking:
- Check oxygen level by using an oxymeter before taking test
- Walk for six straight minutes without a pause, on an even surface with the oxymeter on the finger
- After six minutes, if oxygen level does not go down the individual will be considered healthy
- If oxygen level dips by 1% or 2%, no need to worry
- If oxygen level drops below 93 or by 3% or the individual suffers from breathlessness then the person is advised to get admitted to hospital
- Carry out this exercise twice a day to keep a vigil
- Test not recommended for people suffering from asthma.
- Citizens above 60 years can run this test by walking for three minutes instead of six.
Dr. Pradeep Vyas, principal secretary, Health Department, in a meeting with district administrations suggested that awareness be created of the test. “It will help detect oxygen deficiency in individuals and may help admit them in hospitals at the right time,” he said.