Viral load testing for hepatitis C under the national program were suspended at both Regional Institute of Medical Sciences since September 2024 and Jawaharlal Nehru Institute of Medical Sciences since 15 October 2024 due to a stock-out of reagents required for the HCV RNA test. Authorities at Microbiology Department, JNIMS, issued a notice regarding the temporary suspension of the HCV viral load test, which has resulted in back-log of testing and samples stored for long time at both the hospitals.
Action taken:
- Representation to State Nodal Officer: On 23 October 2024, CoNE submitted a formal representation to the State Nodal Officer for the National Viral Hepatitis Control Program requesting an update on the situation.
- Media Outreach: On 28 October 2024, in the absence of a response, media personnel who were receiving fellowships from CoNE highlighted the issue of reagent stock-out in local news outlets which brought the matter to the attention of the Health Minister.
- Representation to the Health Minister: On 29 October 2024, a formal representation was submitted to the Health Minister, Government of Manipur, urging immediate intervention in the matter. On 30 October 2024, the Health Minister forwarded the letter to the State Mission Director, National Health Mission, Government of Manipur.
- Resolution: Following the intervention, an emergency meeting was held with several suppliers to address the stock-out issue. As a result of the meeting, it was confirmed that the required reagents were made available on November 11, 2024.