Some essential medicines, including paracetamol tablets, and surgical items like absorbent cotton and gauge cloth for bandage were found to be in short supply in pharmacies of the primary health centres(PHCs) of the district.
Based on several complaints, a visit to some of the PHCs in the district on Saturday revealed that some frequently needed antibiotics too were not available. It was a cause of concern as the majority of the 100 to 150 patients visiting the PHC a day have upper respiratory or lower respiratory problems, and complain of fever too.