Category: COVID19

~Introduces revolutionary Livinguard Face Mask that inactivates 99.9% of COVID-19 virus~

Bengaluru, 17^th June 2020 : With the development of medication to combat the novel coronavirus still in the works, it has become imperative to find an immediate solution for this global pandemic. After conducting more than 65,000 experiments and filing more than 100 patents, Swiss hygiene company Livinguard, with operations also in India, as well as Germany, USA, Singapore, Japan, and South Africa, has come up with a revolutionary and first of its kind face mask, that can directly inactivate bacteria and viruses, including 99.9% of the novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2. While most masks available across counters or open markets are preventive in nature, Livinguard face masks are protective and prevent bacteria and viruses from spreading, benefiting both self and others in close proximity. The globally patented technology was invented by Mr. Sanjeev Swamy, an entrepreneur of Indian origin, who also heads the company.

Researchers from the Free University of Berlin at the Institute for Animal Hygiene and Environmental Health have been able to demonstrate that textiles treated with Livinguard Technology can reduce very high amounts of SARS-CoV-2 particles by more than 99.9% within a few hours. “The textiles in these masks can thus continuously inactivate the exhaled viruses and can make handling these masks even safer overall,” says Professor Uwe Rösler. “In addition, such textiles could also help to reduce hygienic issues in other general and medical areas, even beyond COVID-19.” The masks were launched today in India through a virtual press conference where the founder joined from their Swiss headquarters.

Mr. Sanjeev Swamy, Founder, Inventor & CEO, Livinguard Technologies said, “The World Health Organization estimates 89 million medical masks will be required every month throughout the pandemic. Providing superior quality of daily life has always been our aim. Our mission is to provide hygiene suited for the modern world, hence the reason that we chose to conduct our tests at the FU Berlin, who is renowned for their highest standards; and we are honored to be able to introduce Livinguard masks in India. With the number of cases rising in the country daily, it has become crucial to find an answer to the problem. The unique characteristics of Livinguard masks will provide users with an unprecedented level of security. Fine Hygienic Holding in the Middle East is one of our biggest users, as well as millions more across Singapore, Japan, Germany and China. I am confident that we will have similar success in India too.”

He further added, “Livinguard’s current focus is to apply this Technology to solutions that lessen the health risk and economic impact of the crisis by enabling people to protect themselves, return to work, and take back their lives. Since our product is washable and reusable, and mostly made from cotton, the mask is eco-friendly and sustainable. Our research shows that if a million people use one reusable Livinguard mask 210 times, we can save 36,000 tonnes of waste. It is also cheaper than a regular mask because one will need 210 masks to compare with one of ours.”

One of the most respected science leaders of India, Dr Raghunath Mashelkar, said “This scientific breakthrough of deactivating SARS-COV-2 virus on contact with the mask, authenticated fully by world’s top universities, is a global game changer. Every effort should be made so that every Indian benefits from this unprecedented paradigm shift in this provision of safety, security & sustainability, going far beyond the current pandemic.”

The principle underlying the Livinguard Technology is empowering the textile surface with a strong positive charge. When microbes come in contact with fabric, the microbial cell which is negatively charged, is destroyed leading to permanent destruction of the microorganism. Unlike heavy metal-based solutions, such as silver, zinc and copper, this novel technology has been found to be safe for both skin and lungs. Moreover, Livinguard Technology destroys continuously and allows users to reuse the mask up to 210 times with no compromise on safety or efficacy. Livinguard AG believes that the future is tied to sustainable solutions that treat our world kindly. The Livinguard Face Mask not only harnesses powerful coronavirus killing technology but also minimizes waste and uses resources efficiently, thereby offering a unique solution for an overheated supply chain.

The Livinguard mask comprises 3 layers that give 5 levels of protection. The unique patented Tripellent Technology on the Outer layer offers 3 levels of protection – Livinguard Antiviral and repellent coating on the outside of the fabric, Livinguard Antiviral Technology bonded into the fabric itself and Livinguard Antiviral and repellent coating on the inside of the fabric. Non-woven industry-standard filters in the middle layer channels viruses for destruction to the outer or inner layers. Sandwiched between disinfecting fabrics, it is protected from biological contamination, allowing the mask to be safely washed and reused. Denser than the outer layer, and also treated with Livinguard Antiviral Technology, the fabric of the inner layer provides powerful inactivation of coronavirus. Odour free and quick drying with low humidity, the soft and stretchy fabric gives a comfortable fit for the mouth and nose. This specially treated fabric has 36 billion positive charges per cm².

The Livinguard mask can be washed up to 30 times with undiminished efficacy of its protective properties. If used daily and washed weekly under normal usage conditions, the mask can be used for 6 months, effectively replacing the need for single-use masks. The mask can be used for extended periods and reused before washing because the fabric covering the filter media continuously destroys microorganisms upon contact. This significantly diminishes the risk of transferring them to the user and to other surfaces. The mask is proven to be non-toxic and safe for use. The masks are being used by frontline COVID warriors across the world. Depending on the type of mask required, the cost is INR 1490-1990 only.

Livinguard is a member of the World Economic Forum’s Innovators Community. Arnaud Bernaert, Head of Health and Healthcare, World Economic Forum commented, “The World Economic Forum is happy to have Livinguard join our Global Innovators community. We are delighted to work with Livinguard as their innovation holds the potential to greatly advance the world’s response toolkit in the fight against COVID”.

City Today News

(citytoday.media)

9341997936

Company flags-off the healthcare infrastructure centric initiatives with Mumbai, by donating 46 Ambulances & 50 High Flow Heated Respiratory Humidifiers to Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC).
Company to also feed 10,000 migrants with 6,00,000 Daily Meals for a month across the Nation.

14th June 2020, Mumbai: Media & Entertainment Powerhouse ZEE Entertainment Enterprises Ltd. (ZEE) today announced a national level CSR drive towards enhancing the Country’s healthcare infrastructure, further strengthening its fight against Covid-19.
In line with its CSR Policy, approved by the Board, the Company will support state governments & local governing bodies with critical interventions across 10 cities viz. Mumbai, Noida, Chandigarh, Jaipur, Kolkata, Bhubaneswar, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Kochi & Chennai.
The Company will be utilizing the sanctioned CSR budget (for the fight against Covid-19) to provide the following:
Ambulances – 200+ ambulances to be donated to the municipal corporations (46 ambulances have already been donated to BMC).
Humidifiers – 50 High Flow Heated Respiratory Humidifiers to be donated BMC.
PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) Kits – 40,000+ kits to be donated to municipal corporations across the Nation.
Portable ICUs – 100+ ICU units to be built with state-of-the-art tech support across the Nation.
Daily Meals – 600,000 meals to be provided to 10,000 migrants.
With the support of Maharashtra State Government, the Company has flagged off the National level CSR drive against Covid-19 with Mumbai, in the presence of Honorable Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Shri Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray, Minister for Tourism, Environment & Protocol, Government of Maharashtra, Mr. Aaditya Uddhav Thackeray and ZEE Entertainment Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Punit Goenka, by donating 46 Ambulances and 50 High Flow Heated Respiratory Humidifiers to BMC. This support will help build capacity and enhance the existing healthcare infrastructure in Mumbai.
The Company will approach and work with all state governments and local governing bodies across the Nation, to formulate an action plan that is structured on fulfilling the immediate requirements to fight the pandemic.
Over and above the support towards healthcare relief, ZEE has also partnered with Akshaya Patra Foundation to provide 600,000 daily meals which will support 10,000 migrants across the Nation for a month.

Speaking on this announcement, Mr. Punit Goenka, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, ZEE said, “The effects of the Covid-19 pandemic in India have been far reaching and calamitous for vulnerable communities. It is important that we stand up during such times and step up our efforts as responsible members of the society. ZEE is committed to continue its strong support towards the Government, with a key focus on strengthening the overall healthcare infrastructure, to save our Nation from this pandemic. We are also significantly increasing our efforts on-ground to provide relief to migrants across the Country. We will continue to do our best to serve the Nation in these challenging times.”
Mr. Aaditya Uddhav Thackeray, Minister for Tourism, Environment & Protocol, Government of Maharashtra said, “The scale of this pandemic is enormous, and the Government of Maharashtra is working round the clock to enhance the modular medical facilities and support our frontline workers. Every step ahead is a successful step towards beating the current humanitarian crisis. We would like to thank Mr. Punit Goenka and ZEE for their support in this time of need towards Covid-19 response and relief.”
Mr. Iqbal Singh Chahal, Commissioner, BMC added, “We are dealing with challenging times where being ahead of the virus is key to fighting the war against Covid-19. We have implemented several path breaking innovative measures across the city to curb the increase in number of cases and are ramping up our medical facilities. We are glad to receive this support from ZEE that will further strengthen our efforts while also ensuring the well-being of the citizens. It is humbling to see organisations such as ZEE coming forward and fighting this crisis together with us.”
Earlier, vide an official press release issued on 7th April 2020, ZEE had announced financial support to over 5000 Daily Wage Earners working directly or indirectly with the Company. The Company had also encouraged all its 3400+ employees to contribute towards PM CARES Fund. The amount generated was matched by ZEE, and the collective proceeds were routed to PM CARES Fund.
As a responsible Media & Entertainment player, ZEE continues to take strong steps needed in further intensifying its fight against Covid-19.

City Today News

(citytoday.media)

9341997936

Strict action will be taken against hospitals which try to exploit people – Minister Dr.K.Sudhakar

Bengaluru – June 15, 2020 : Only goverment hospitals were utilized for treatment covid19 patients till now and going forward private hospitals will also be utilised to trate covid patients, Medical Education Minitser Dr.Sudhakar said. He also warned that strict action against private hospitals who refuse to admit corona patients.

Minister was speaking after attending the meeting convened by CM BSY to review the situation as cases are increasing in Bengaluru. Responding to media on the procurement of PPE kits minister assured that only MDA and CE aproved PPE kits are being purchased and people need not worry about quality of PPE kits. Minister said that he is personally visiting all districts and monitoring the situation.

Decision will be soon made on roping in private hospitals to treat covid19 patients and the cost of testing and treatment will be fixed by government, the Minister said. Dr.Sudhakar also warned that strict action will be taken against hospitals who try exploit people by charging exorbitant prices. Private sector sector has to join hands with Government in this battle against pandemic, minister appealed.

Insurance facility for COVID19 treatment

Minister said that he will soon discuss with Union Health Ministry to bring COVID treatment under ABARK. This will help including covid treatment under health insurance and people can utilise insurance to get treated in private hospitals.

According to WHO wearing masks can reduce the spread of infection by 90%. Hence everyone must wear mask mandatorily, Minister urged. Guidelines issued by government should be followed and all it is applicable to all public gatherings including marriages, Dr.Sudhakar said.

Role of Media

Minister requested the media to raise awareness among public though facts and help them to overocme the anxiety and fear about virus. Bengaluru has about 607 cumulative cases so far and 330 among them are still active. Only 6 of them are in ICU and 93% of them are asymptomatic. Corona is not as dangerous and SARS and mortality rate in the state is just 1.2% while it is 2.8% for whole India. Except the fact that corona is spreading fast it is not as dangerous as past viruses. For example mortality rate in SARS is 10%. So media should create awareness among public with these facts and figures rather than creating panic, Minister said.

City Today News

(citytoday.media)

9341997936

1) Shops will be closed
2) Essential shops including vegetables, fruits, groceries, and fuel stations will be allowed between 6 am to 2 pm. People should not confine only within 2Km to purchase essentials.
3) Autos, Taxis will be allowed only for emergency
4) Eateries are allowed function between 6 am and 8PM, Only take away is allowed
5) Food Delivery allowed. Delivery representative should have proper Emp ID.
6) E –pass to go out from Chennai will be given only with proper supporting documents for marriage, death and health emergency.
7) Operation of trains, flights will continue.
8) 21st June and 28th June are the two Sundays will undergo complete lockdown without relaxations. Only emergency and essential services will be allowed.
9) 33% of employees except people from containment zone may come for work
10) No relaxations in containment zone
11) Tea shops should be closed throughout the lock down.
12) Amma Canteens will be kept open
13) Construction works can be carried out. Construction workers should be facilitated to stay near the construction spot. One time testing is essential for them.
14) Banks, Courts, Media can function.

This will be implemented in the Greater Chennai Police limit and several adjoining areas of Chengalpattu, Tiruvallur and Kancheepuram districts

City Today News

(citytoday.media)

9341997936

Bengaluru, 15^th June, 2020: As the country gradually opens up after the lockdown and people get back to work, protocols of social distancing, sanitization and personal hygiene are required to be followed by employees of all organizations. To ensure that all the guidelines mentioned by the government and health authorities are followed meticulously by organizations and that there are timely audits of compliance measures, Awign, India’s largest and most trusted work-fulfilment platform, has created a unique compliance platform called ACCP or Awign Covid Compliance Platform.

ACCP is a tech-based platform that can be deployed in any kind of work environment and modified according to the needs and requirements of on-field norms and workflows. This platform not only ensures that employees follow the Covid-compliant Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) but also deploys Awign’s vast network of gig workers to carry out actual physical audits of enforcement measures.

Underlining the need for such a solution that makes the enforcement of Covid-19 compliance measures easier, Gurpreet Singh, Co-founder, Awign shares, “Indian Economy is finding a way to work through the unprecedented circumstances. As the factories, warehouses, large corporate offices reopen amidst COVID-19, they need solutions which ensure all regulations and best practices for mitigating COVID-19 are followed every minute. We have built ACCP to this effect and have made sure that our solution is inclusive of all the actual stakeholders who are responsible for COVID compliance at any workspace.”

In a similar vein, Annanya Sarthak, Co-founder, Awign says, “Having created livelihood through 5 million tasks in past 2 years, Awign has now launched ACCP and is impacting the workforce across various industries, enabling a way for them to come back to work and earn a living amidst the pandemic. We aim to scale fast and impact more than a million employees by getting them back to their workspaces in a safe, controlled and monitored environment.”

The platform has three main benefits:

Enforce: Implement Covid-compliant measures among the workforce so that protocols of social distancing, implementation of personal hygiene, among others, are taken care of.

Monitor: The application detects breaches of protocols and alerts the stakeholders regarding the same through dashboards.

Audit: Timely and regular physical intervention by Awign’s gig workforce in case of violations.

The way ACCP works is simple yet highly effective and easy to deploy. It provides a mobile app-based platform for employers, supervisors and those who are in charge of enforcing protocols. The platform is easy to operate even by the non tech savvy employees like a security guard and Awign provides end to end training and operational support customized for every organization that deploys its platform. It constantly flags violations of protocols through dashboards, notifications, emails and SMSs to all the stakeholders involved. Finally, periodic and detailed physical audits are undertaken by Awign’s professional auditors who carry out inspections of office premises through both mystery and non-mystery means. Awign charges a minimal user based subscription fee from the corporate basis the usage of the platform. 

ACCP has customizable modules to ensure Covid Compliance for a wide variety of scenarios including corporate offices, manufacturing setups , supply chain centres, mobility and last mile delivery solutions, retail establishments, etc. Backed by investors like Unitus Ventures, Michael and Susan Dell Foundation and Work10M, Awign has already partnered with some of the top corporate organizations in the country to ensure Covid-19 compliance among their workforce.

City Today News

(citytoday.media)

9341997936