Thiruvananthapuram: Health Minister Veena George has said that corona prevention activities have been strengthened in the state in view of the increasing number of corona in other countries. All districts are on alert. Districts are meeting separately and intensifying prevention and surveillance. It has been instructed to report immediately if cases are seen increasing anywhere and to strengthen defenses accordingly. The health department will review the activities of all the districts on Friday, the minister said.
Districts have been directed to send more corona samples for genetic sequencing to monitor for new variants. Whole genomic surveillance (WGS) is performed to detect different corona variants. The minister said that the samples should be sent for genetic testing to the labs designated for each district. It has been instructed to report accurately if corona variants are found in any districts and strengthen prevention activities accordingly. Corona testing is done for people with respiratory diseases who are admitted in hospitals. The minister added that people with severe fever, sore throat and shortness of breath will also be tested for corona.
Be extra careful as it’s a holiday. Do not go out in public places and crowds without wearing a mask. Don’t talk with your mask down. People with symptoms like fever, cough and cold should not be close to the elderly and children. The elderly, those with co-morbidities and children need special care. The minister suggested that people wash their hands with soap and water after coming out.