By Siraj Khan, Nepalgunj, Sept. 1: The Remdesivir antiviral medicine, considered effective in treating the COVID-19 patients in critical health condition, was used in Banke for the first time on Tuesday.

Along with the introduction of plasma therapy for the first time in Bheri Hospital from Monday, the Nepalgunj Medical College Teaching Hospital for the first time medicated a critically ill COVID-19 patient on Tuesday with Remdesivir antiviral.

Dr. Dinesh Shrestha, assistant director at the Nepalgunj Medical College, said, “A 48-year-old male COVID-19 patient of Bishalnagar, Dhangadhi, was medicated with the Remdesivir.”

A medical team including Dr. Sandesh Pandit under the leadership of physician Dr. Shyam BK had given the medicine to the patient.

Physician Dr. Asim Kidwai of the hospital has been attending the patient.

Stating that first vial of Remdesivir was given to the patient, Dr. BK said, “We will decide whether to continue the medication of Remdesivir or to opt for plasma therapy depending upon the patient’s condition.”

“Khadananda Pandey, revenue officer of Nepalgunj Inland Revenue Office, has already donated blood for plasma therapy,” said Dr. BK.

The doctors clarified that the Remdesivir medication will be given only to those COVID-19 patients who are admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU).