Thiruvananthapuram ∙ Health Minister Veena George said preventative measures have been stepped up in view of reports of new Covid genetic variant (XBB, XBB1) in different parts of the world. Instructions were given to all districts. The new is much more versatile than the previous variants. Then the resistance will be strengthened.
The minister warned that 1.8 percent of those infected may need hospital treatment. There is currently no reason to worry. But attention is needed. Everyone should wear the mask correctly for self-protection. The elderly and people with related diseases should use the mask. Masks must be worn at the airport and in enclosed spaces.
A high-level meeting was held under the guidance of the Minister to evaluate the precautions and provisions of the Department of Health. The meeting assessed that covid cases in the state are generally decreasing. There are currently less than a thousand cases. Samples are routinely sent to check for the covid genetic variant. In the new case, more samples will be sent for genetic testing. The minister ordered to monitor hospital admissions, beds and the use of intensive care.
The minister informed that guidelines will be issued for those with flu-like symptoms in case of reporting of cases of influenza and covid. Older people and those with comorbidities are likely to be more vulnerable to the new covid variant. So they should be more careful. The minister also informed that the elderly, health workers and people with related diseases must take the reserve dose.
Summary in English: Health Minister Veena George issues warnings against new COVID variant
