The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has issued new guidelines which limits the use of antibiotics in the treatment of COVID-19 (unless there is a suspicion of bacterial infection) amid the increasing cases of H3N2 flu and a rise in COVID-19 infections in the country. 

The guidelines also state that drugs such as Lopinavir-ritonavir, hydroxychloroquine, Ivermectin, Molnupiravir, Favipiravir, Azithromycin, and Doxycycline and treatments like Convalescent Plasma Therapy should not be used for the treatment of adult COVID-19 patients. 

In moderate or severe diseases at high risk of progression, Remdesivir may be considered for up to five days.

In rapidly progressing moderate or severe disease, Tocilizumab should be considered preferably within 24-48 hours of the onset of severe disease/ICU admission. 

People are advised to maintain physical distancing, use masks indoors and follow hand hygiene. 

Symptomatic management and monitoring of temperature and oxygen saturation are advised along with seeking immediate medical attention in case of difficulty breathing, high-grade fever/severe cough, particularly if lasting for more than 5 days.

Download the latest guidelines on COVID-19 - click here