Nationwide Drill begins today to check Covid Preparedness as cases Rise

• Image Credit: Internet

• Apr 10, 2023 | Kabir Chakraborty

The health minister warned that there should be alertness for a potential fourth wave of the COVID pandemic. 

Digital Desk: In light of an increase
in Covid-19 cases, a nationwide drill is scheduled for today and tomorrow to
assess public and private hospitals' emergency preparations.

color:#2E2E2E">At the All India Institute of Medical Science (AIIMS) in
Jhajjar, Haryana, Mansukh Mandaviya, the union minister of health, will be in
charge of the exercise.

color:#2E2E2E">In the review meeting held last week, Mansukh Mandaviya
requested that state health ministers remain vigilant and assess the readiness
of medical institutions.

The five-step approach
of "Test-Track-Treat-Vaccinate and adherence to Covid-Appropriate
Behaviour" remains the tried-and-true method for managing Covid, according
to what he had mentioned.

color:#2E2E2E">The health minister promised that the government is ready to
handle the recent rise in infections in an exclusive interview. He said that
there is a weekly review of preparedness and that ICU beds, oxygen supplies,
and other critical care arrangements are in place.

color:#2E2E2E">The health minister warned that there should be alertness for a
potential fourth wave of the COVID pandemic. According to him, the most recent
Covid mutation was the Omicron BF.7 sub-variant, and the current XBB1.16
sub-variant is what is driving the increase in infections. He added that in the
ministry's experience, sub-variants are not very harmful.

Since there has been an
increase in COVID-19 instances across the majority of the nation in recent
days, some states have made masks once again required, while others have issued
cautionary advice.

color:#2E2E2E">As a preventive step, Haryana and Puducherry have made wearing
face masks in public areas mandatory. Masks are also required in Haryana's
schools.

color:#2E2E2E">Masks are now required for pregnant women, the elderly, and
those suffering from lifestyle diseases in Kerala, while officials in Uttar
Pradesh have issued a 'high-priority' directive directing staff to conduct
international passenger screening at all airports.

Delhi, Maharashtra, and
Himachal Pradesh have also encouraged citizens to follow Covid guidelines.

Also Read: India Covid Alert: Several staff members of Supreme Court test positive for Covid-19