Covid Surveillance: Minister Mansukh Mandaviya from the Union Ministry of Health on Wednesday reviewed the Covid-19 situation in the country due to the sudden increase in cases observed in some parts of the world and stressed the officials to be vigilant and increase surveillance. He ordered to wear masks in public places
“Due to rising cases of Covid-19 in several countries, today reviewed the situation with experts and officials. Covid is not over. I have directed all concerned to be vigilant and intensify vigilance. We are ready to handle any situation,” Mandavia said in a tweet. .
Health Secretary, Department of Medicine, Department of Biotechnology, AYUSH, Director General of Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) Rajeev Bahl, also NITI Aayog Member (Health) Dr. VK Paul and National Technical Advisory Group on Immunization (NTAGI) Chairman Dr. NK Arora was in the meeting.
Recently, signs of an increase in cases have been observed in Japan, the United States, the Republic of Korea, Brazil and China. The Union Health Ministry on Tuesday requested all states and Union Territories to increase whole genome sequencing of its Covid-positive samples to keep track.
In a letter to states and Union Territories, Union Health Secretary Rajesh Bhushan said that such an exercise would enable timely detection of new strains circulating in the country and would help in taking necessary public health measures.
After Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya’s review meeting, NITI Aayog member Dr VK Paul urged all Indians to take precautionary doses of the vaccine and make it a habit to wear masks in crowded public places.
So far, “only 27-28 percent of people have taken the precautionary dose. We are appealing to others, especially senior citizens, to take this dose. The precautionary dose is mandatory and prescribed for everyone.” He is quoted as saying.
In the meeting presided over by the health minister, Paul said, “If you’re in a crowded place or outside, it’s important to use a mask. For people with comorbidities or advanced age, it becomes essential.”
Regarding aviation, he said, no change order has been implemented so far.