Health Ministry Mandates Covid-19 Preparedness Report by June 2 Amid Rising Cases, ET HealthWorld

New Delhi: As Covid cases continue to rise across the country, the union health ministry has asked several states and union territories, including Delhi, to put preventive measures in place.

As of May 28, India recorded 1,621 active cases with Kerala, Maharashtra, Delhi, Gujarat, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka accounting for over 90 per cent of total active infections.

In a letter dated May 29 to state chief secretaries and UT administrators, health secretary Punya Salila Srivastava addressed the seasonal increase in respiratory illnesses caused by various pathogens, including Influenza, SARS-CoV-2 and RSV. “A notable but gradual increase in cases of acute respiratory illnesses (ARIs) due to SARS-CoV-2 is being seen in some parts of the country,” the letter mentioned.

She stated that most infections were mild, with current Omicron variants JN 1, XFG, and LF 7.9 causing typical symptoms of fever, cough and sore throat that resolve naturally.

The letter instructed states and UTs to assess hospital readiness at district and sub-district levels, including medical colleges, tertiary care centres and other inpatient healthcare facilities.

This includes ensuring the availability of diagnostics, essential drugs, PPEs, isolation facilities, oxygen supply, critical care beds and ventilator-supported beds.

Facilities must conduct mock drills to verify oxygen preparedness. An action taken report has to be shared by June 2.

The ministry emphasised following testing protocols as per operational guidelines: testing all SARI cases and 5% of ILI cases. SARI-positive samples have to be forwarded to regional VRDL centres for whole genomic sequencing. District Surveillance Units must monitor ILI/SARI trends, track SARI proportions among cases, and maintain regular data entry on the portal concerned.

Through public health education, proper hand and respiratory hygiene practices, including appropriate cough etiquette and avoiding spitting in public, have to be promoted.

Vulnerable groups, including elderly and immunocompromised individuals, should avoid crowded, poorly ventilated spaces or wear face masks in such environments.

Also, individuals experiencing respiratory symptoms should monitor their health and seek medical attention if they develop serious symptoms like breathing difficulties or chest pain.