COVID-19 LIVE Updates: Health Secretary writes to states regarding mock drills on Dec 27

No COVID-19 case or death was reported from Chhattisgarh on Saturday, the twentieth time the state had a clean slate amid the pandemic this year, an official said.

There was no addition to the tally and toll similarly on April 10, 14, 16, 17, May 15, November 13, 23, December 3, 4, 9, 10, 12, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19 and 20, he pointed out. 

The tally and toll stood at 11,77,748 and 14,146, respectively, while the recovery count was 11,63,595, he said.

The active caseload in Chhattisgarh was seven, the official said.

Union Health Ministry on Saturday wrote to all the states and Union territories and directed them to ensure a functional and regular supply of medical oxygen for Covid-19 pandemic management.

In its letter, the Ministry emphasised the importance of medical oxygen and vital resource in all clinical settings, particularly during the pandemic. A reliable oxygen supply is critical for saving lives during patient care and COVID-19 management, it said.

"During the Covid-19 pandemic, the Government of India has supported States/UTs by installing and commissioning PSA Plants, Oxygen Concentrators, Oxygen Cylinders, and other oxygen-related infrastructure to ensure the availability of medical oxygen in a cost-effective and reliable manner in public health facilities across the Country. The Support for ventilators was also extended by GoI to ensure better patient management," the letter from the Health Ministry read mentioning that it holds weekly review meetings with all the States and UTs to ensure that all the medical oxygen facilities and equipment are set up and function properly.
 

In view of a global upsurge in cases of Corona, Odisha State Health Secretary Shalini Pandit on Friday wrote to the Central government asking for the re-commencing of COVID-19 precaution dose vaccination of the citizens who are "left out" and are 18 years or above in the state.

In her letter written to the Union Health Secretary Rajesh Bhushan, Pandit said, "To date, 8.14 Crore doses of COVID-19 vaccines have been administered in the State. Of this, 3.52 Crore (97%) doses have been administered as the first dose and 3.30 Crore (91%) doses as the second dose to beneficiaries aged 12 years and above and 1.31 Crore (41%) doses administered as precautionary doses to citizens aged 18 years and above in the State."

At least 38 new cases of coronavirus were detected in Maharashtra on Saturday, raising the tally of infections in the state to 81,36,479, an official from the state health department said. 

The toll remained unchanged at 1,48,414, while the count of recoveries reached 79,87,928 after 35 patients recovered from the infection in the last 24 hours, the official said. 

With 9,880 swab samples tested in the last 24 hours, the total number of tests conducted across the state so far rose to 8,58,42,380, he said.

As per the official report, Mumbai circle recorded the highest number of cases at 18, followed by Pune with eight, Akola with six, Nashik with three, Nagpur with two and Aurangabad one.
 

Extending financial support to the families of journalists who lost their lives during the Covid-19-impacted period on the occasion of 'Good Governance Day', Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath will provide aid of Rs 5.30 crores, stated an official statement. 

The state government will provide financial aid to the families of about 53 deceased journalists.

It is noteworthy that earlier in the month of July, the Uttar Pradesh government had provided about Rs 10 lakh each as aid for the kin of about 50 journalists who passed away due to coronavirus.

Union Health Secretary Rajesh Bhushan writes to secretaries (Health) of States and UTs regarding conducting mock drills at all health facilities (including identified COVID-dedicated health facilities) across the country on December 27.

Union Minister Anurag Thakur on Saturday hit out at the Congress over its Bharat Jodo Yatra, accusing the party of abdicating its responsibility by flouting Covid protocols when the pandemic was rearing its head once again.

Thakur also sought to know whether Rahul Gandhi, who is leading the Bharat Jodo Yatra, had undergone his Covid test as Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, who had walked alongside him last week, was infected with coronavirus.

"Covid cases are rising in China and Japan. There are long queues outside hospitals, dead bodies are piling up. But you are not bothered about the interests of the country. You are bothered about only one family. Congress has displayed this attitude time and again," the senior BJP leader said.

The Tamil Nadu government stepped up vigil amidst a sudden surge in Coronavirus cases in some parts of the world and on Saturday 37 passengers who arrived at the international airport here were screened for COVID-19.

None among those screened had symptoms for Coronavirus, said State Health Minister Ma Subramanian.

The passengers had arrived from Kuala Lumpur, Dubai, Colombo and Dhaka and 2 per cent of them were screened for the pandemic as per the guidelines issued by the Central government.
 

Passengers arriving at Khajuraho Airport in Madhya Pradesh will be screened for coronavirus if they show symptoms of the infection, an official said on Saturday.  

Khajuraho in Chhatarpur district is one of the biggest tourist attractions in central India.

As per directives of the authorities, a team will be posted at Khajuraho Airport for screening passengers and RT-PCR tests will be conducted in suspected cases, Chhatarpur's chief medical and health officer (CMHO) Dr Lakhan Tiwari said.
 

Maharashtra Health Minister Tanaji Sawant on Saturday said that COVID-19 is out of the state. "There are only 132 Covid patients in the state. There is nothing to fear," he added.

"We are working on alert mode to control the spread of Covid- 19. Conducting Sewage and human surveillance. Virus RNA was found in sewage samples in Delhi and Mumbai. Urge people to wear masks, avoid crowded places and follow Covid appropriate behaviour," Union Health Min Dr Mandaviya said.

Speaking to reporters in Hubballi, Karnataka CM Basavaraj Bommai said, “We will continuously monitor the situation, but there is no need to panic. Only thing is that people should be cautious. The government, people, organisations and society have to face COVID together... I have instructed Health Minister Dr K Sudhakar and health department officials to enhance the health infrastructure. It’s not just about hospitals but also stocking drugs and vaccines. There should not be any shortage at any level."

Amid the surge in Covid-19 cases in several countries across the world, the Director of Tata Institute for Genetics and Society Dr Rakesh Mishra said, "There is nothing for India to be worried about at this stage. China is in a situation where many of its people will get infected & do not have vaccine protection. Those who are not vaccinated should get vaccinated immediately. We should avoid crowding and wear a face mask. If we do these things, we will be safe. The government needs to continue to conduct testing."

International arrivals from China, Hong Kong, Thailand, Japan and South Korea are being tested for Covid-19 at the Delhi International airport from today. 

Tamil Nadu Health Minister Ma. Subramanian inspected the COVID-19 testing booth established outside the Chennai International airport. 

Speaking to Republic, Former Health Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan said, "We need to follow COVID protocols and revive the habit of using masks. We have already activated all our labs; genome sequencing of all positive samples is to be done."

Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya said, "RTPCR mandatory for international passengers arriving from China, Japan, S Korea, Hong Kong & Thailand amid the global surge in COVID cases."

Amid a surge in COVID-19 cases in several countries across the world, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) on Friday urged citizens to follow "COVID-appropriate behaviour, including wearing masks in public, maintaining physical distance from others, washing hands frequently with soap and water, and staying home when feeling sick".

India reported 201 new coronavirus infections, raising the tally to 4.46 crore, while the active cases increased to 3,397, the Union Health Ministry said on Saturday. An increase of 17 cases has been recorded in the active COVID-19 case count in a span of 24 hours, the ministry said.

Union Health Ministry fact-checked a report claiming that the government is planning to make COVID-19 negative test report mandatory for passengers arriving from countries with a high number of cases. The Ministry called the report "fake and misleading".

Congress leader and MP Jairam Ramesh said, "Will wear the mask. PM wore a mask to Parliament yesterday but later there was no mask on his face. We will follow all protocols issued by govt on the basis of medical evidence. BJP is doing politics on COVID and trying to defame Bharat Jodo Yatra."

On Friday, the Jammu and Kashmir administration said that there is no need to panic in view of rising COVID-19 cases in neighbouring countries as no surge has been reported in J&K and also maintained that it is fully geared up to tackle the situation in the Union Territory.

The Odisha government on Friday issued a fresh advisory to citizens to follow COVID-19 appropriate behaviour, like wearing masks during Christmas and New Year. The state administration asked people to avoid crowded places and use masks, maintain social distancing, and go for tests if found symptoms.

The Mumbai civic body on Friday said it would focus on rigorously implementing the vaccination drive amid a surge in COVID-19 cases in some countries, believed to be fuelled by the BF.7 sub-variant of Omicron.

A release from the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation also appealed to citizens to strictly adhere to COVID-19 norms and appropriate behaviour in order to keep coronavirus at bay.

The BMC said the steps it was taking were based on guidelines issued by the Union government on December 20 and 22 after a surge in cases in China, Japan, and the United States of America.
 

Chhattisgarh on Friday reported three COVID-19 cases at a positivity rate of 0.23 per cent, taking the tally to 11,77,748, a health official said.

The death toll and recovery count stood unchanged at 14,146 and 11,63,595, respectively, he added.
 

In light of the sudden rise in COVID-19 cases in some parts of the world and the Centre's guidelines, the civic authorities have started thermal screening of 2 per cent of passengers arriving at the Pune International Airport, an official said on Friday.

At least 600 beds have been readied at civic hospitals in case any patient needs to be kept in isolation, said Dr Ashish Bharti, health officer of the Pune Municipal Corporation said.

"Apart from Naidu Hospital, preparations have been made at two more hospitals. There are three to four dedicated COVID-19 hospitals that can be readied in two to three days," he said, adding that the civic body has also stocked the necessary medicines.
 

Maharashtra on Friday recorded 23 new cases of coronavirus that raised the tally of infections to 81,36,441, an official from the state health department said.

The toll remained unchanged at 1,48,414, as no fresh fatalities were reported in the last 24 hours, while the count of recoveries reached 79,87,893 after 23 people recovered from the infection, the official said.

The state had reported 20 new COVID-19 cases and two fresh fatalities on Thursday.

With 8,370 swab samples tested in the last 24 hours, the total number of tests conducted across the state rose to 8,58,42,380, he said.

PTI

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann held a COVID-19 review meeting here on Friday and urged people to wear masks in public places, in view of the rising number of cases of the viral infection in some countries.

He said the state government was fully prepared to tackle any unforeseen challenges. Deputy commissioners have been directed to constantly review the arrangements in their respective districts, while the government will set up a state-level Covid control room, Mann added.

Nearly 83 per cent of eligible population in Madhya Pradesh's Indore district has not taken the precautionary dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, an official said on Friday.

The stock of Covidshield vaccine has also gotten over in Indore, which was one of the worst affected districts in the state amid the pandemic, the official said.  

At least 30 lakh people have taken the first and second doses of the COVID-19 vaccine, but only five lakh have taken the precautionary booster dose, district vaccination officer Dr Tarun Gupta said.

This indicates that there are still 25 lakh people who have not taken the precautionary jab of the vaccine, he said.
 

"We are alert but no restrictions will be imposed, 2% of the international passengers are tested for genome sequencing. We have also alerted the officials in the meeting to be prepared before the mock drill on December 27," said Goa CM Pramod Sawant in a meeting with state officials.

A mock drill to test Covid emergency preparedness would be conducted in hospitals across the country on Tuesday, December 27.

"A mock drill for an emergency response to deal with Covid 9 cases will be conducted at hospitals across the country on Tuesday, 27th December, the Union Health Minister Dr Mansukh Mandaviya will also be participating in the Mock drill," official sources to ANI.

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Friday urged tourists visiting the hill state to follow COVID-19 protocol, including wearing a face mask, as a precautionary measure amid the spurt in infection in some countries.

The appeal comes in the backdrop of the highly transmissible Omicron strains, mostly BF.7, causing a spike in coronavirus cases in many countries, including China.
 

The Indian Army on Friday issued an advisory urging its personnel to take precautions including wearing face masks, especially in closed and crowded areas. 

The warning was released in response to an increase in COVID-19 cases in China, South Korea, Japan, and the US. 

The Army advisory states anyone exhibiting symptoms needs to get their health checked. 

The advisory further asks soldiers to practice hand hygiene and maintain social distance. 

All symptomatic individuals should be tested for COVID-19, and those who test positive should be quarantined for seven days. Those displaying moderate-to-severe symptoms will be hospitalised, the Army said. 

Union Health Minister Dr Mansukh Mandaviya on Friday held a meeting with State health ministers on the COVID-19 situation and preparedness.

Equity benchmarks tumbled nearly 2 per cent on Friday in tandem with weak Asian market trends as investors sentiment remained muted in view of the COVID-19 surge in some countries.

The 30-share BSE Sensex continued to remain under selling pressure for the fourth day running and slumped 980.93 points or 1.61 per cent to settle at 59,845.29. During the day, it tanked 1,060.66 points or 1.74 per cent to 59,765.56.

On similar lines, the broader NSE Nifty dropped 320.55 points or 1.77 per cent to end at 17,806.80.

Karnataka Health Minister K. Sudhakar on Friday appealed to the people of the state to take the booster dose at the earliest and follow the COVID-appropriate norms. "I appeal to the people of Karnataka to take the booster dose at the earliest. People should wear masks, especially in indoor places & maintain social distancing. Today Union Health Min is chairing a meeting with us & accordingly will follow the guidelines of Centre".

With random coronavirus testing of international arriving passengers set to start from Saturday, the Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) has said that airlines' crew members will have to bring such identified passengers to the testing facility at the airport. Against the backdrop of rising coronavirus cases in China and some other parts of the world, the government has decided to subject 2% of the passengers arriving on international flights to random coronavirus tests starting from Saturday morning.

In a communication on Friday, the ministry said that airlines are required to direct their crew members to lead and bring identified 2% of international arriving passengers to the testing facility at the airport. "The airport operators would create necessary infrastructure to facilitate random testing of international arriving passengers at their respective airports," the communication said. The communication has been sent to the aviation regulator DGCA and copies have been marked to all scheduled commercial airlines, airport operators as well as to states and Union Territories (UTs), among others.

Amid the fresh global surge in the Covid cases by a new coronavirus variant, B.F7, the Centre government on Friday assured the general public by saying that the Covid positivity rate in the country is declining week-on-week. According to a release, issued by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare on Friday, the positivity rate is declining week-by-week with only 0.14% positivity in the week ending on December 22.

"Consistent decline in cases in India is recorded with five states accounting for 78 percent of the daily new cases reported on December 22," the Health Ministry said, adding that 8 states and 4 UTs currently have zero reported active cases.
The average daily cases on October 7 to 13 were 2,408--1.05%, which later reduced to 153-- 0.14% on December 16 to 22, the official statement read.

The average daily cases during the week ending December 21, India has contributed only 0.03% of Covid cases in the cases reported globally. India's global contribution of only 153 cases is highly lesser, as compared to 1,54,521-- 26.8% of Japan, Health Ministry's data show. However, the ministry has advised States to step up their Covid related actions.

The Health Ministry urged the States to undertake mock drills across all Health Facilities to ensure the operational readiness of Covid-dedicated facilities with a specific focus on Oxygen Plants, Ventilators, logistics & human resources.

Some passengers at the Indira Gandhi International Airport were seen wearing masks after the Centre issued Covid guidelines "We should take precautions. I hope it doesn't spread like last time. Govt have time to prepare for its prevention. We were asked to wear masks inside the flight," said Sreejita, a passenger

Indian Army has issued an advisory on the rising COVID-19 cases across the world including China, the USA, and Japan.

• A close watch is being kept on the evolving epidemiological situation in the country and the Indian Army.
• Army personnels need to take protective measures like the use of face masks, especially in closed and overcrowded spaces, and practicing social distancing.
• Regular hand hygiene including hand washing and use of hand sanitiser
• All symptomatic individuals will be tested for COVID-19 and those testing positive will be isolated for 7 days.
• Those having moderate to severe disease will be admitted to the hospital

Republic TV reports from MCH Hospital in Jammu & Kashmir ramps for COVID-19. Over 200 beds and oxygen facilities have been set up in a view of preparedness amid the ongoing global upsurge. 

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has called a meeting of the officials of the state health department over the Covid-19 situation as the country gears up for a possible surge in the number of cases. The Punjab Government has claimed that they have only nine active Covid-19 cases in the state with 16 districts of the state reporting zero Covid cases so far.

Madhya Pradesh Home Minister and BJP leader Narottam Mishra said, "In the last 24 hours, zero new cases of corona infection have come in the state, while zero patients have been cured. Currently, there are 5 active cases in the state, while the infection rate is 0.0% and the recovery rate is 98.70%. 65 samples have been taken in the last 24 hours. The State Government has authorised the DRD Lab of Gwalior and AIIMS Bhopal to investigate the new variant of Corona in the state. Everyone should accept the appeal of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to follow the prevention of COVID-19".

Bharat Biotech's first-of-its-kind needle-free intranasal vaccine has received approval from the Health Ministry as the COVID cases make a  global resurgence with a new BF.7 Omicron sub-variant. The vaccine will be used as a heterologous booster & will be available first in private hospitals, as per sources; 2 drops of vaccine advised. The nasal vaccine is likely to be added to the CoWIN App from today.

Union Health Ministry to issue a new advisory for COVID-19 in view of New Year and upcoming festivals, as per sources to ANI

Uttar Pradesh Deputy CM Brajesh Pathak told Republic TV, "The state government is prepared. All the officials have been instructed to make sure the public is adhering the COVID-19-appropriate behaviour. All the passengers arriving from abroad will be quarantined and undergo RTPCR testing".

Health Ministry will conduct pan-India mock drills at hospitals to check COVID preparedness amid global upsurge in COVID-19 cases on December 27.

The Uttar Pradesh police headquarters located in Lucknow released an instruction that stated that masks will be mandatory for policemen. "The policemen will do duty wearing masks. Also will follow social distancing and use sanitizer. This will spread awareness. Along with that instructions have also been issued to get 100% vaccination and booster dose mandatory".

Union Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia held a press conference amid the COVID-19 upsurge and the health sector of the country. He said, "India successfully battled all three waves of coronavirus. Our nation administered over 220 crore vaccination doses. India to become preventive now. PM Modi has directed to ramp up testing. Our healthcare stands on four pillars which are:- Accessibility, Affordability, Assured quality, and Digital delivery".

Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Tejashwi Yadav asserted that the state government is fully prepared to handle a surge in COVID-19 cases. Yadav, who holds the health portfolio, reviewed the COVID situation in the state with health officials, civil surgeons, and directors of medical colleges on Thursday, asking them to gear up in case of an outbreak of the new variant of the coronavirus.

Hospitals are fully prepared, and testing and vaccination are underway in full swing. The medical establishments are equipped with medicines and adequate oxygen supply. People must also take safety measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19, the deputy chief minister said.

Allaying fears about BF.7 variant of coronavirus, a prominent scientist on Friday said it is a sub-variant of Omicron strain and that India need not worry too much about its severity on the population. Speaking to PTI, Rakesh Mishra, Director, Tata Institute for Genetics and Society (TIGS), Bangalore, however cautioned that wearing face masks and avoiding unnecessary crowds is always advisable.

The former director of CSIR-Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology further said China has been witnessing an unprecedented surge in COVID-19 cases as the neighbouring country has not passed through different waves of the infection that India had faced.

"This is a sub-variant of Omicron. Main features will be like Omicron except some small changes, there is no big difference. Most of us have gone through the Omicron wave. So, we don't have to worry about it. Essentially, it is the same virus," he said.

China is experiencing a surge in infections due to its "zero-Covid policy", under which authorities block apartment buildings or even cordon off a neighbourhood once a resident tests positive, causing great inconvenience to the people, the scientist said.

Mishra added that the Chinese population is not exposed to natural infection and they did not use the time to vaccinate the elderly people.

"So what is happening to those guys is, since they’re not vaccinated, their symptoms are severe. Younger people still do not have any problem. But among older people who were not vaccinated, it is spreading very fast," he said about the situation in China.

According to him, most Indians have acquired hybrid immunity which means immunity developed through vaccines and also natural infection protecting them from different COVID-19 variants.

The scientist said the existing vaccines in India are good to prevent or thwart different Omicron variants also as several studies indicated that even in the big wave of Omicron earlier this year, India did not see many hospitalisations.

Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha assured, "We are prepared for COVID-19 but must follow the old advisory. Oxygen, PPE kits, and ventilators are available in the hospital. People know what is to be done. Instructions have also been given to the health department for the same" 

The Indian Medical Association (IMA) has advised people to avoid public gatherings such as wedding ceremonies, political or social meetings as well as international travel amid a rising number of COVID-19 cases in some countries, including China.

In an advisory issued on Thursday, the IMA also appealed to people to go for vaccination against the viral disease, including taking the precaution dose, and follow Covid-appropriate behaviour such as using masks at public places and following social-distancing norms.

According to reports, around 5.37 lakh fresh cases of the infection were reported in a 24-hour period recently from countries such as the United States, Japan, South Korea, France and Brazil, the IMA said.

"With the robust infrastructure in the public as well as the private sector, dedicated medical manpower, proactive leadership support from the government and availability of sufficient medicines and vaccines, India will be able to manage any eventualities as done in the past," it said.

The doctors' body also appealed to the government to upscale the preparedness for any such situation, as seen in 2021, by issuing necessary instructions to the ministries and departments concerned to make available emergency medicines, oxygen supply and ambulance services.

The IMA has also issued an advisory to its state and local branches, asking them to take the necessary steps in case of an outbreak in their areas.

"As of now, the situation is not alarming and therefore, there is no need to panic. Prevention is better than cure," the IMA said.

It also advised regular handwashing with soap or sanitiser and consulting doctors in case of symptoms such as fever, sore throat, cough and loose motion. 

Union Health Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya will hold a meeting with State health ministers on the COVID-19 situation and preparedness at 3 pm today. 

The Ministry of Health released an advisory for International passengers in which they will have to undergo mandatory testing on arrival. 

Amid the rising fear over the increasing number of COVID-19 cases across the world, the Union Ministry of Health issued a fresh precautionary advisory for travellers in efforts to curb the spread of the deadly virus. Earlier in the day, Union Health Minister Manuskh Mandaviya held a "COVID review" meeting in New Delhi to discuss the measures that could be taken in view of the sudden spurt of cases in neighbouring China and other countries. 

Elaborating on the effectiveness of genome sequencing, the advisory said, "In view of the sudden spurt of cases being witnessed in Japan, United States of America, Brazil and China, it is essential to gear up the whole genome sequencing of positive case samples to track the variants through Indian SARS-CoV-2 Genomics Consortium (INSACOG) network."

"Such an exercise will enable timely detection of newer variants, if any, circulating in the country and will facilitate the undertaking of requisite public health measures for the same," the advisory added.  

The government on Thursday said that two per cent of passengers arriving in each international flight will be subject to random coronavirus test from December 24.

The Union health ministry has written to the civil aviation ministry in this regard amid an increase in coronavirus cases in many countries.

Following random testing, if anybody is found Covid-positive, the sample should be sent for genomic testing at the designated INSACOG laboratory network, Union health secretary Rajesh Bhushan wrote in a letter to his civil aviation ministry counterpart Rajiv Bansal.

After submitting samples for random testing, travellers will be allowed to leave the airport.

A copy of the positive report shall be shared with Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme at shoc.idsp@ncdc.gov.in by the concerned testing laboratory (besides sharing with the APHOS) to be in turn shared with concerned state or Union Territory for further follow-up action, Bhushan said.

Bhushan in the letter stated that as a result of its sustained efforts and focus on the five-fold strategy of test-track-treat-vaccination and adherence to Covid-appropriate behaviour, India has been able to effectively restrict the spread of COVID-19 transmission in the country so far.

However, globally the number of new cases of COVID-19 continue to remain alarmingly high, with around 5.9 lakh daily new cases reported on average during the week ending on December 19, 2022.

This spike in the trajectory of COVID-19 is particularly concerning with respect to Japan, United States of America, South Korea, Brazil, France and China where cases are increasing in a sustained manner, he stated.

"...it has been decided that ministry of civil aviation in coordination with airport operators and Air Port Health Offices (APHOS) shall ensure" two per cent of the total passengers in the flight shall undergo random post-arrival testing at the airport, Bhushan said in the letter.

Such travellers in each flight shall be identified by the concerned airlines (preferably from different countries), the letter said, adding that after submitting the sample passengers shall be allowed to leave the airport.

"This arrangement shall come into practice with effect from 10:00 AM on Saturday, December 24, 2022," the letter said.

Bhushan requested the ministry of civil aviation that testing may be done at a subsidised and uniform rate across all international airports.

These post-arrival protocol were also issued by the health ministry separately in its Guidelines for International Arrivals (in supersession of guidelines issued on the subject on November 21 2022).

According to the guidelines, all travellers should preferably be fully vaccinated as per the approved primary schedule of vaccination against COVID-19 in their country.

In-flight announcement about the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic including precautionary measures to be followed (preferable use of masks and following physical distancing) shall be made in flights/travel and at all points of entry.

Any passenger having symptoms of COVID-19 during travel shall be isolated as per standard protocol i.e. the said passenger should be wearing mask, isolated and segregated from other passengers in flight/travel and shifted to an isolation facility subsequently for follow up treatment.

Thermal screening should be done in respect of all the passengers by the health officials present at the point of entry, the guidelines said.

The passengers found to be symptomatic during screening will be immediately isolated, taken to a designated medical facility as per health protocol (as above).

All travellers should self-monitor their health post arrival and also shall report to their nearest health facility or call national helpline number (1075)/ state helpline number in case they have any symptoms suggestive.

Children under 12 years of age are exempted from post-arrival random testing. However, if found symptomatic for COVID-19 on arrival or during the period of self-monitoring period, they shall undergo treatment as per laid guidelines.

(PTI)

The Health Ministry has directed the Ministry of Civil Aviation that 2% of the total passengers in a flight must undergo COVID-19 tests at the airport on arrival. Such passengers to be identified by the airline, will be allowed to leave the airport after giving sample. Samples testing positive will be sent for genome sequencing.

The Punjab Health department on Thursday asked its officials concerned to step up the number of daily Covid testing to 10,000 in the state, amid a spikes in cases in some countries.

Meanwhile, a coronavirus review meeting, to be chaired by Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Thursday, has been postponed and it is likely to take place on Friday, official sources said.

A senior official of the health department said directions have been issued to increase daily COVID-19 testings from around 3,000 at present to 10,000.

He further said instructions have also been issued to all civil surgeons in the state to ensure that the samples of all positive cases should be sent for genome sequencing at a facility in Patiala.

There are nine active coronavirus cases in the state as of now, the official said.

Of the total nine active cases, two each are in Jalandhar and Muktar and one each in Gurdaspur, Amritsar, Sangrur, Faridkot and Fatehgarh Sahib, according to the medical bulletin of the health department.

Punjab has till date recorded 20,513 deaths due to COVID-19 and a total of 7.85 lakh people were found positive for the infection out of total 2.10 crore samples taken for tests.

Maharashtra Health Minister Tanaji Sawant on Thursday said international travellers arriving in the state will undergo thermal testing amid concern of a possible spike in COVID-19 cases due to the BF.7 variant of Omicron.

He was speaking in the Assembly after a meeting to review the situation was chaired by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis.

Sawant told the House that no patient of the BF.7 variant has been reported in Maharashtra, and added that of the four cases detected in the country, two each are from Gujarat and Odisha.

All district and urban agencies are being made aware about the new variant and have been asked to stay on alert, Sawant said, while Fadnavis tweeted that nodal officers in each district will monitor the situation.

Sawant emphasised on testing, tracking, treatment and vaccination, but stressed there was nothing to fear.

Children and elderly people should wear masks as a precautionary measure, besides following social distancing, he added.

"From Monday, two per cent of the passengers will be tested from international flights arriving in the state. There is no reason to worry and guidelines should be followed," the minister said.

If Omicron infected four people, this new variant infects 10 people, so its transmission rate is high, Sawant asserted.

BF.7 is a sub-lineage of the Omicron variant BA.5 and has the strongest infection ability since it is highly transmissible, has a shorter incubation period, and a higher capacity to cause reinfection or infect even those vaccinated.

Meanwhile, Fadnavis said citizens need not panic, but must take all appropriate precautions against COVID-19.

At present, Maharashtra has 132 active cases, including 22 patients in hospitals.

The state is doing genome sequencing in identified cases, he said, adding that the global scenario, the state's preparedness in case of a surge, vaccinations as well as other issues related to the pandemic were discussed in the review meeting.

"Citizens need not panic at all but everyone must take appropriate precautions," the Deputy CM said.

(PTI)

"An advisory will be issued making masks mandatory at indoor, closed and air-conditioned places", K Sudhakar, Health Minister of Karnataka, said per ANI. "Union government guidelines will be followed for random testing and screening passengers arriving from abroad at international airports". 

"During the high-level meeting on Covid19, PM Modi was informed that there is adequate availability with regard to medicines, vaccines and hospital beds. He advised to regularly monitor the availability and prices of essential medicines", an official statement from the Prime Minister's Office said.

PM Modi, during a high-level meeting on COVID-19 warned against complacency and advised to stay vigil amid looming threat of another COVID-19 wave. He also urged wearing masks in crowded public places, ramping up testing and also genomic sequencing and administering 'precaution dose' to vulnerable and elderly groups.

"Earlier, the Centre didn't take COVID seriously. Now they are seriously tackling it by taking cognizance of the COVID situation in China", Jharkhand Health Minister Banna Gupta said. "We are prepared and have taken adequate measures. As and when cases rise, we'll take immediate steps". 

"We've held talks with the Union Health Minister. Further flights and international passengers from China and other such countries should be stopped", he futher said. 

"Only 24% people have taken precaution dose, we request the people to take precaution dose", Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal said. "We have 380 ambulances, we have given orders for procuring more ambulances. We are waiting on the guidelines of Central government, as and when it gives orders we will implement".

"COVID cases are rising in China and several other countries. It has BF.7 variant. We don't have a single case of that variant in Delhi. So there's no need to worry", Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal said. "We are doing genome sequencing. Currently, XBB variant cases are coming in Delhi". 

"We have 8,000 beds for Covid in Delhi. Now, we aim to prepare 36,000 beds pertaining to COVID. We have a storage capacity of 928 mt tonne oxygen in Delhi", he informed. 

"As far as COVID-19 is concerned we are looking into the situation and are keeping a close watch", West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee said. "We are monitoring the situation in the state as well. The committee is reviewing the situation". 

In the wake of surge in COVID-19 cases in many countries, India has started 2 per cent random sampling of international travellers coming to the country and may consider making it mandatory for all if necessary, Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya said on Thursday.

He was responding to queries of some Opposition MPs after his suo moto statement in Rajya Sabha on the latest COVID-19 situation and India's preparedness.

"We are constantly monitoring the situation. There are no direct flights between China and India but people come via other routes," he said in response to a query by Raghav Chadha of AAP on whether the government would ban direct flights from China.

As a health minister, Mandaviya said he has spoken to many countries and WHO about what all precautions are needed to be taken and also understand in which direction the pandemic is moving.

"At a primary stage, we have already started doing 2 per cent random sampling of any traveller coming to India," he said.

The minister further said "in the coming days the percentage could be increased and if necessary we will make it mandatory for everyone coming to India".

Mandaviya also said the focus of the government is to ensure that no unknown variant of the virus enters India and at the same time there is now impediment on travelling.

The minister assured the Upper House that all the oxygen plants were running and a review has also been done about the availability of medicines.

"We are prepared and ready to provide the requirement of medicines and vaccines in the country," he said.

Mandaviya also informed that an expert committee has given approval to nasal vaccine to combat the virus, doing away with the requirements of jabs.

"We are fully prepared to fight the virus," he asserted.

Referring to the letter written to Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot and Congress leader Rahul Gandhi to follow appropriate covid protocol during the Bharat Jodo Yatra, he said it was his responsibility as a health minister to write after few MPs from the state had pointed out to him about people, including the Himachal Pradesh chief minister who took part in the event contracted the virus.

"We have never done politics on covid crisis and we don't even want to do it," Mandaviya asserted.

In his statement, he said in the recent days there have been reports of rise in COVID-19 cases in many countries such China, Japan, South Korea, the US, France, Greece and Italy.

The evolving nature of the virus poses threat to global health in a way that impacts virtually every country, he said adding the Centre has asked states to remain alert and create awareness about wearing face masks and using hand sanitisers, especially in view of upcoming festivals and new year celebrations.

He further said states have also been advised to focus on heightened surveillance within the community and to undertake requisite control and containment measures, increase the whole genome sequencing of all positive cases for timely detection of newer variants, if any.

(PTI)

"Today, all MPs wore face masks in Parliament. The government of India has issued advisories to all States and UTs regarding the COVID-19 situation", Union minister G Kishan Reddy said. "Rahul Gandhi can continue with his Bharat Jodo Yatra but with COVID-19 protocols".

Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired a review meeting on the COVID-19 situation as a fresh scare has now gripped the nation with the emergence of new variant BF.7 in the country. Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, Home Minister Amit Shah and Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia along with top experts from the NITI Aayog and the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) were also present. 

"Now that Rahul Gandhi's Bharat Jodo Yatra is going to enter Delhi, they're saying that COVID-19 Omicron cases are increasing. The cases of the sub-variant detected were between August to November this year", Congress MP Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury said. "When we got information on this surge variant, then why did PM campaign in Gujarat polls, and why was a millets exclusive lunch organised at Parliament recently?", he futher questioned.

Telangana Health Minister has planned to chair a COVID-19 review meeting amid fresh scare. 

"We haven't done any politics on covid. Oxygen plants have been set up in big hospitals across the country and are being run", Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya said in Rajya Sabha. "We have reviewed the adequate amount of medicines in the country".

Congress Rahul Gandhi remained defiant despite the Covid warning and said that Covid is just an excuse and that the BJP wants to stop the Bharat Jodo Yatra. "Wear masks, don’t do yatra, Covid is increasing, these all are excuses. They are scared of India’s truth," Rahul Gandhi said while addressing a public gathering during Bharat Jodo Yatra.

After Lok Sabha, Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya addressed the Rajya Sabha on the Covid situation and said, " In the view of festive season ahead, states asked to be alert and create awareness about masks and sanitisers."

Following the other states, Telangana Health Minister Harish Rao will hold a high-level review meeting on Covid today evening.

Addressing the Lok Sabha on Covid-19, Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya said that the pandemic is not over yet. "In the wake of festive & new year season, states are advised to make sure people wear masks, use sanitisers and maintain social distancing along with increasing awareness for precautionary doses," he told LS.

Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya addresses Lok Sabha on Covid-19. Watch LIVE on Republic.

Congress senior leader Jairam Ramesh tweeted, "4 cases of Omicron sub-variant BF.7 driving Chinese surge were reported in Gujarat & Odisha in July, Sept & Nov. Health Minister writes a letter to Rahul Gandhi yesterday. PM is reviewing the situation today. Bharat Jodo Yatra will enter Delhi the day after. Ab Aap Chronology Samjhiye…"

The Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital in Delhi has issued a notice, urging everyone to follow Covid appropriate behaviour in the hospital i.e.

• Wearing of masks by all.
• Proper hand hygiene measures.
• Social distancing.
• Motivation of public.

Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath held a meeting with Team-9 officials over the Covid-19 situation in the state. During the meeting, CM Yogi told officials to create awareness about mask usage in crowded&public spaces. He instructed them to conduct genome sequencing of every positive case. The Chief Minister also ordered the officials to increase the pace of COVID testing & precaution dose.

Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya is likely to make a statement in both the Houses of Parliament today on Covid-19.

Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami held a high-level meeting with the officials of the Health Department regarding the prevention of Covid-19.

According to sources, no non-stop flights from China are allowed to land in India only flights via Singapore and Hongkong, said sources, adding that govt to review if indirect flights are to be restricted or not.

Haryana Home Minister Anil Vij said, "We have equipped ourselves better in the previous three waves of Covid. We have RT-PCR testing facilities in all districts along with a sufficient supply of oxygen in plants. People shouldn't panic & must follow all guidelines."

PM Narendra Modi and several other MPs wear masks as they attend the proceedings of the Rajya Sabha.

Amid the outbreak of the B.7 Omicron sub-variant in foreign countries, Delhi Indira Gandhi International Airport has now increased its surveillance. 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will chair a high-level COVID review meeting today afternoon in a bid to take stock of the current situation in the country. The meeting will take place at 3.30 pm at Prime Minister's residence. Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, health secretary along with other Niti Aayog and National Testing Agency (NTA) experts will be present at the high-level meeting.

Punjab health minister Chetan Singh Jouramajra assured there is no need to panic. "We just have nine active cases of Covid. 16 districts do not have any positive cases of Covid so far. We have established oxygen plants and have prepared hospitals as well accordingly. There's no need to worry".

Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann has called for an emergency meeting to take stock of the COVID-19 preparedness of the state. 

'Patients with comorbidities need to be very careful in the coming days as there is a surge in COVID. Regularly check your glucose levels and blood pressure and follow COVID protocol using masks, hand sanitisers, and social distancing,' said Dr. Rajeev Bansal, senior consultant physician

Punjab gears up for COVID-19 crisis with the arrangements of  790 special beds with oxygen levels, 324 ICU beds, Liquid oxygen plants set up in the state, and Centre of excellence in Amritsar 

Rajesh Tope, Shiv Sena (Uddhav Thackeray faction) MLA on Wednesday stated, "We need to be alert in view of the outburst of Covid in China, Brazil, and other countries. We need to strictly follow the advisory of the central government and WHO & focus on tracking, testing, treatment, and COVID-appropriate behaviour. We made oxygen plants in rural areas but it needs to be checked whether they're in good condition now. I feel that there's a shortage of medicines too. Genome sequencing is important to know variants. There shouldn't be a shortage of ventilators and staff".

Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal has called an emergency meeting tomorrow to review the preparations in view of the COVID-19 situation in the national capital. Deputy CM Manish Sisodia along with other senior officials of the Health Department will be present at the meeting

"Rise of Covid cases in other countries including China may be due to poor vaccination, not having good quality vaccines, or being very restrictive. Right now, things are under control in India. But we must be cautious," said Dr Pallavi Saple, Dean of JJ Hospital & Health Expert

"In India, we have sufficient evidence to prove that those who recovered from Covid are best protected. It's important to monitor all variants. But it's unlikely that we'll face any serious problems due to the virus in the current scenario," said Dr Sanjay Rai, Senior Epidemiologist, AIIMS Delhi

Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde will chair a review meeting today afternoon before the State cabinet meeting in the evening over the COVID-19 situation and the preparedness across the state. 

On Wednesday, Union Health Minister Manuskh Mandaviya held a "COVID review" meeting in New Delhi. In this crucial meeting, Mandaviya along with senior officials and experts discussed the measures that could be taken amid the rise in cases in neighbouring China and other countries. Medical experts such as member (Health) of NITI Aayog Dr VK Paul, AIIMS Director M Srinivas, National Technical Advisory Group on Immunization (NTAGI) Chairman N L Arora, Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) Director General Rajiv Bahl, and other senior officials participated in the meeting chaired by Mandaviya.

Notably, this came after a sudden surge in COVID-19 cases in the United States, China, Brazil, and South Korea prompted the Central government to review the pandemic situation in India.

India reported four COVID-19 cases of the B.7 Omicron sub-variant in the past six months -- a new variant that has currently caused a rapid surge in China, as per official sources. Out of four, three cases were reported from Gujarat while another one was from Odisha's Bhubaneswar in the month of  July, September, and November. Though, no more cases have been found so far and the infection wasn't found strong. 

"There are currently ten different variants of COVID-19 in the country, with the latest variant being BF.7. At present various variants of Omicron are spreading in the country and the Delta variant can still be seen in the country," a source told ANI

The BF.7 is an abbreviated form for BA.5.2.1.7. It is a sub-lineage of the Omicron variant BA.5 and has the strongest infection ability since it is highly transmissible, has a shorter incubation period, and has a higher capacity to cause reinfection or infect even those vaccinated. Persons infected with the BF.7 variant of Omicron may experience symptoms similar to other sub-variants. Common symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, runny nose, vomiting, fatigue, and diarrhea.

The Chandigarh administration has issued a notification and mandated the RTPCR for flu symptoms in all government hospitals. In order to identify COVID cases, the administration has been notified to increase the testing. The patients visiting OPDs have been asked to get their negative report of RTPCR if having symptoms. The healthcare workers were asked to take precautionary measures and wear a face mask.