The Union Health Minister of India, Mansukh Mandaviya, recently held a review meeting with State Health Ministers, Principal and Additional Chief Secretaries to discuss the rising cases of COVID-19 in the country. During the meeting Minister stressed the importance of identifying emergency hotspots, ramping up testing and vaccination, and ensuring the readiness of hospital infrastructure. He also emphasised the need to create awareness about following COVID-appropriate behaviour and conduct mock drills of hospital infrastructure. Additionally, the states and Union Territories were informed that WHO is closely tracking one variant of interest (VOI) and six other variants are under monitoring. Mandaviya stated that the five-fold strategy of ‘Test-Track-Treat-Vaccinate and adherence to COVID-appropriate behaviour continues to be the tested strategy for COVID management. The states were also advised to increase the rate of testing and the share of RT-PCR in tests. The country has been witnessing a steady increase in COVID-19 cases, with average daily cases rising to 4,188 in the week ending April 7 from 571 in the week ending March 17.
It is important to understand that COVID-19 is primarily spread through respiratory droplets that are released when an infected person talks, coughs or sneezes. These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of nearby people, or they can be inhaled into the lungs. COVID-19 can also be spread by touching a surface or object that has the virus on it and then touching your mouth, nose, or eyes. The virus can also be spread by people who are not showing any symptoms but are infected with COVID-19. This is why it’s important to wear a mask, practise social distancing, and follow other public health guidelines even if you feel healthy.
However, it’s also important to note that the pandemic is ongoing and new cases can occur at any time. Individuals and communities must remain vigilant and follow public health guidelines such as wearing masks, practising social distancing, and getting vaccinated. Most vigilant should be State Administration and healthcare systems, which should have robust monitoring and response mechanisms in place to detect and respond to any potential surges in cases. The situation with COVID-19 can change rapidly, and individuals and communities should stay informed and follow the latest guidance from public health authorities to help prevent the spread of the virus.
Jammu and Kashmir had seen the worst during the second wave of COVID-19 when the region was reporting hundreds of new cases and several deaths each day. The surge was attributed to several factors, including the emergence of new and more contagious variants of the virus, large gatherings such as religious events and political rallies, and a lack of adherence to public health guidelines such as wearing masks and social distancing. Much has changed in these two years. Augmentation of oxygen supplies, testing labs, and past experience can be useful in being prepared for any eventuality.
The situation in Jammu and Kashmir is not alarming yet, but neighbouring Himachal is witnessing a surge in cases. It is in the public’s interest to note that the COVID-19 pandemic is ongoing and that new waves of infections can occur in any region at any time. Individuals and communities must continue to follow public health guidelines and get vaccinated to help prevent the spread of the virus. It’s also important for Governments and healthcare systems to remain vigilant and prepared to respond to any potential surges in cases. It is always going to be a team effort; without the awareness and active participation of the people, the situation cannot be tackled. Keep well informed and follow the Government guidelines-that is the simple mantra.
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