New Delhi: India registered three COVID-related mortalities in a day and reported 636 fresh coronavirus cases , according to Health Ministry data released yesterday. Two deaths were reported from Kerala and one from Tamil Nadu.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) classified COVID sub-variant JN.1 as a variant of interest given its rapidly increasing spread. However, WHO stated that it posed “low” global public health risk.
Leh government on Monday mandated wearing of masks in public places while urging people to maintain social distancing in offices and public places. Leh registered 11 new cases last week.
“In view of rising COVID-19 cases in the district, precautionary measures to contain the spread of COVID-19… are hereby ordered to be followed strictly.” the order read.
District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) CEO, Santosh Sukhadeve issued the order that stated, “People must ensure compulsory wearing of facemasks in offices, workplaces and public places, including public transport.”
India’s recent battle against COVID-19 appears to be taking a new turn. Since December 2023, a steady rise in cases, particularly in Kerala, has raised concerns about a potential resurgence. The emergence of a new Omicron sub-variant, JN.1, adds another layer of complexity to the situation, urging both central and state governments to take swift and strategic action.
While India had successfully brought down its daily caseload to a comfortable low earlier in the year, the past month has witnessed a worrying upward trend. Kerala has been at the epicenter of this surge, with daily cases exceeding 600 at times. Additionally, the detection of JN.1, a sub-variant classified as a “Variant of Interest” by the World Health Organization, has heightened anxieties. While its transmissibility and severity are still under investigation, JN.1’s presence necessitates enhanced vigilance.
Both the central and state governments are adopting a two-pronged approach to tackle this evolving situation. On the one hand, measures are being implemented to curb the spread of the virus. Increased testing, mask mandates in some states, and targeted restrictions in high-risk areas are among the steps being taken. Additionally, the government is focusing on strengthening vaccination coverage, particularly booster doses, to bolster population immunity.
On the other hand, the government is mindful of avoiding the economic and social disruptions caused by stringent lockdowns. With the holiday season recently concluded and regular life resuming, striking a balance between vigilance and normalcy is crucial. The emphasis lies on implementing targeted interventions and promoting responsible behavior among citizens.
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