A Tribute to our Health Warriors

It does not require a pandemic to tell us how important doctors are in our lives. But now, more than ever, the unflinching role played by the medical fraternity comes to the forefront, and it is a fitting time to thank them, says Dr Vaibhav Mishra, Director – CTVS, Fortis Hospital, Noida.

- Dr Vaibhav Mishra

The word ‘doctor’ dates back to the 14th century, and is derived from the Latin word‘ docere’, which means ‘to teach’, but now globally and unanimously claimed by mostly medical practitioners.

Doctors’ Day is celebrated every year on different days in different parts of the world, to appreciate and honour the contribution of doctors to society.

In India, it is observed on 1st July every year, being the birthday of the late Dr B. C. Roy, eminent physician, ex Chief Minister of Bengal, and recipient of the highest civilian honour, the Bharat Ratna.

This year, doctors have become even more conspicuous, with an unprecedented, unparalleled pandemic gripping the world, bringing even the developed nations to their knees. The COVID 19 or coronavirus pandemic, which started in China, has already infected 8 million people across the globe, and caused half a million deaths (at the time of this being written), making it the worst pandemic in a century.

The microscopic, highly infectious RNA virus has overwhelmed and tested the medical profession and the healthcare infrastructure across the globe, including India. But the herculean effort, the resolve and the commitment shown by doctors against an unfamiliar disease gives reason enough to hail them as warriors.