The Karnataka government on Tuesday issued an advisory asking people above 60 years of age, those suffering from co-morbidities, pregnant women and lactating mothers to wear face masks when going out and avoid closed, poorly ventilated spaces and crowded areas. Told to strictly avoid going. , in view of the current COVID-19 situation in the country and the detection of JN.1 subvariant in neighboring Kerala.
It also issued a circular directing officials in districts bordering Kerala and Tamil Nadu to remain alert and ensure adequate testing and timely reporting of Covid cases.
In the context of the current COVID-19 scenario in the country and the emergence of the JN.1 subvariant, the ongoing winter and expected crowding in closed spaces especially during the year-end and New Year celebrations, the general public is recommended to Said to follow precautionary measures, which have also been advised by the Covid-19 State Technical Advisory Committee (TAC).
“All elderly (aged 60 years and above), people with co-morbidities (especially those suffering from kidney, heart, liver diseases, etc.), pregnant women and lactating mothers, should wear masks when going out and in closed spaces, Going to less ventilated places should be strictly avoided. Crowded areas,” the advisory issued by Health and Family Welfare Services Commissioner Randeep D said.
He said all people with respiratory symptoms such as fever, cough, cold and runny nose should seek prompt medical consultation, wear a mask (covering the nose and mouth) and avoid closed, poorly ventilated spaces and crowded areas. should avoid.
The circular said that good maintenance of personal hygiene, including frequent hand washing, is essential. “Stay home when you feel unwell and minimize contact with other people, especially the elderly and vulnerable. Wearing a mask in crowded places, especially if they are not well ventilated, is recommended.
According to the circular, in view of the Covid 19 cases reported in Kerala, it is necessary to follow certain preventive and proactive measures in Karnataka. There is no need to panic at this time or immediately intensify cross-border surveillance (i.e. in the states of Kerala and Tamil Nadu) by imposing restrictions.
However, all districts bordering the state with Kerala and Tamil Nadu should remain vigilant and ensure adequate testing and timely reporting of Covid cases. All cases of severe acute respiratory infection (SARI) and at least 1 in every 20 influenza-like illnesses should be tested. The circular said there is a need to address ILI of COVID 19 cases in all private and government tertiary centres, including medical colleges.
It also lists the types of cases in which whole genome sequencing should be performed.
