COVID Assam: Immunity-boosting tablets with high price tags flood markets

STAFF REPORTER

GUWAHATI: With a fresh surge in the number of COVID-19 positive cases in the State, various types of immunity-boosting tablets have flooded the markets.

On the other hand, prices of Vitamin C, zinc, multivitamins, antioxidant tablets and other immunity-boosting Ayurvedic products are soaring as people are rushing to purchase the same. Zincovit Multivitamin syrup which used to cost Rs 115 to Rs 120 a few days ago, is now being sold at Rs 135 to Rs 145. A strip of 15 Zincovit tablets is now being sold at prices ranging between Rs 105 and Rs 120 whereas the previous rate was Rs 90. A strip of Limci — a Vitamin-C tablet — used to be sold at Rs 20. The same strip of Limci tablet now costs Rs 39. Prices of Becosules and vitamin tablets are double their earlier prices.

But doctors have warned that unchecked and repeated use of immunity-boosting tablets and home remedies prompted by the fresh COVID-19 infection fear could result in serious health complications.

"The very concept of boosting immunity is wrong. An individual's immunity is a reflection of his or her own health. So, we should work on our overall health, specifically gut health; and then your immunity will automatically improve," said a senior doctor at the Medicine department of Gauhati Medical College & Hospital. He pointed out that nearly 70 per cent of our immunity depends on our gut health.

Gut health refers to the balance of microorganisms that live in the digestive tract.

"The environment in which you have your meals is also very important. What you eat and what you don't eat is crucial for good gut health. Exercise, sleep and hydration also play crucial roles in maintaining a strong immune system," added the doctor.

Also Read: After 45 Days from the 1st Vaccine, Immunity Will be Activated: Himanta Biswa

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