The Union Health Ministry on Sunday issued a 9-page set of guidelines for the management of Covid-19 patients in India. However, the guidelines have removed all medicine including ivermectin and favipiravir – two most prescribed medicines by doctors – due to the absence of evidence of their utility in the treatment of the virus.

The guidelines, issued by the Directorate General of Health Services, say that no medicine is required while dealing with asymptomatic cases, and instead advise self-monitoring for fever, breathlessness, oxygen saturation or the worsening of other symptoms. If conditions persist, the patient should seek tele-consultation.

The guideline also incudes a list of diagnostic tests to be carried out. It also advises the use of high-resolution CT only in aggravated conditions.

“It is not indicated in mild Covid-19 patients who are in home care or Covid care centres. Physicians are advised to exercise extreme caution in using remdesivir as this is only an experimental drug with potential to harm.”

The new guideline requires every hospital to set up a drug committee to monitor the use of Remdesivir and review its effects.

The new report stresses on the need for a balanced diet and sufficient hydration, as well as the advantages of being in a positive environment. It advised patients to stay connected with their families and indulge in positive conversations via phonecalls, video calls, etc.