Health Ministry Warns About COVID-19, Next 40 Days Are Crucial

Amidst the risk of increase in the COVID-19 cases prevailing in the globe, Health Ministry has warned the nation to follow the pandemic protocols. The coming 40 days are going to be crucial as India may see a surge in COVID-19 cases in January, said official sources.

Moreover, the officials said that there will be increase in hospitalization and deaths are unlikely, while citing the prevailing cases.

Health Ministry Warns The Nation

Health Ministry said, “We have seen during the three previous waves that any surge reported in East Asian countries hits Europe in about 10 days, the Americas in another 10 days, and the Pacific island countries in another 10 days. The surge reaches India in 30 to 35 days. So, it is crucial that people stay cautious during the month of January.”

Although, the COVID-19 cases in India is continued to be low. According to a report, 188 new cases were reported over previous 24 hours.

The Government has re-introduced random testing of international travelers December 24 onwards. In last three days, almost 6000 passengers are tested. According to the officials, 39 passengers are found to be positive. Despite that, Government has not banned travelling or enforces any mask mandate.

A senior official said, “There is a need to be cautious and be prepared, but there is no need to stop travel from any country. Implementation of Air Suvidha (the online portal of the government where travelers have to submit travel details and a negative RT-PCR test conducted at the boarding port within 72 hours of travel) is being considered from six countries – China, Japan, South Korea, Thailand, Singapore and Hong Kong – next week onward… Masks will also not be made mandatory, but we will urge people to wear it rather than fine them.”

Also Read: iNCOVACC “Not For Those Who Have Taken Booster Dose”

Government Officials Issues Guidelines 

Last week, Prime Minister Narendra Modi conducted a review meeting amid the global rise in COVID-19 cases. Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya met with senior officials and ministers issued guidelines, including random samplings of 2% international travelers.

On Tuesday, a country wide mock drill was conducted to check the preparedness of the health facilities for COVID-19 management. Moreover, 20,000 health facilities from across the country participated in the drill.

-Bharat Express