The Department of Microbiology in association with the Youth Red Cross Unit, St Agnes College (Autonomous) Mangaluru organized a e-webinar on the YouTube platform entitled “All about COVID – Facts and Fiction” on Wednesday 19 May 2021 at 6 pm.

The organizing committee comprised of Mrs. Vidya Patali, Convenor and Head of the Department of Microbiology, Mrs. Prajwal Rao, Co-convenor and Assistant Professor, Department of Microbiology and Programme Officer ,Youth Red Cross Unit and Dr. Leesha Sharon, Organizing secretary and Assistant Professor ,Department of Microbiology St Agnes College.

The programme commenced with prayer conducted by Ms. Flany Nikitha Martis, final year student of Microbiology followed by message given by the Principal of St. Agnes College Sr. Dr. M Venessa A. C., on the current situation, fear prevailing around and the need for the webinar.

The Resource person for the session was Dr. Shrikala Baliga, Professor, Department of Microbiology, Kasturba Medical College, Mangaluru .

She enlightened the participants on various aspects of COVID. The general picture of the COVID pandemic around the world was displayed with statistics on the number of cases and deaths in India .The pathogenesis of the disease was explained in simple terms which included the mode of transmission, sequence of events of the disease and the symptoms. The talk also included a note on role of immunity during the infection. Various guidelines and the need of positive attitude required for a COVID positive individual was also highlighted and emphasized upon. She also gave inputs on the importance of using masks, sanitizers, social distancing and vaccination

The talk ended at 7.05 PM followed by an interactive session, wherein the doctor clarified all queries including the availability and usage of vaccines.

The session was very enriching and educative as it was put up in a layman’s language with all needy key points. The session got an overwhelming response with more than 2600 participants attending the session and giving a very encouraging positive feedback.

The Programme was compered and moderated by Dr. Leesha Sharon. Mrss. Seementheni Fernandes , Assistant Professor and Mr. Gurucharan , Lab. Assistant, from the department of Computer Applications provided technical assistance in organising the webinar.