Thiruvananthapuram: Kerala has witnessed a spike in COVID-19 cases, with 115 new infections reported on Tuesday, taking the total number of active cases in the state to 1,749. Despite the surge in cases, the Kerala health department has reassured the public that there is no need for panic.
Nationwide Cases and Measures:
Across India, 142 new cases of COVID-19 were reported on Tuesday, with Kerala accounting for the majority (115 cases). In light of the situation, an alert has been issued in Uttar Pradesh regarding the coronavirus and its new variant.
Kerala Health Minister’s Statement:
Kerala Health Minister Veena George addressed the state’s preparedness to tackle the coronavirus resurgence. She emphasised that there is no cause for concern as Kerala is well-equipped to handle the infection. The minister recalled a similar increase in cases in November that led to a ministerial-level meeting to develop containment measures.
Steps Taken to Control the Spread:
To combat the rising number of coronavirus cases in Kerala, several measures have been implemented. Instructions have been issued to test individuals exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19 and send their samples for genome sequencing. Additionally, the state has ramped up corona testing and ensured an adequate supply of medicines.
Mock Drills and Readiness Assessment:
An online mock drill was conducted from December 13 to 16 in government and private hospitals across Kerala to ensure the availability of isolation wards, oxygen beds, ICUs, and ventilators. Furthermore, a high-level meeting was held on Tuesday to assess the COVID-19 situation and the state’s preparedness.
Uttar Pradesh on Alert:
Due to the increasing cases in Kerala and the emergence of a new variant, Uttar Pradesh has issued an alert. The Yogi Adityanath government has instructed all district hospitals and medical colleges to complete preparations by Tuesday. If new COVID-19 patients are identified, their samples are to be sent for genome sequencing.
Rajasthan’s Response:
In response to the situation in Kerala, the Rajasthan government has ordered genome sequencing of samples from COVID-19-positive patients. The government has also directed hospitals to closely monitor patients presenting with influenza-like illness (ILI) and severe acute respiratory infections (SARI) and collect samples for testing if necessary.
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