On Wednesday, Union Health Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya convened a high-level conference with chief health secretaries and top officials in reaction to the growing number of COVID-19 cases in five states: Kerala, Delhi, Goa, Gujarat, and Karnataka.
Kerala accounted for 292 of the 341 cases of COVID-19. Three cases each were reported from Delhi and Gujarat, nine cases from Karnataka, four cases each from Telangana and Puducherry, and thirteen cases from Tamil Nadu.
The new JN.1 Covid-19 variant has raised concerns, but according to Soumya Swaminathan, the former head scientist of WHO, there is no need for fear just now because it is classified as an interesting variation rather than a serious one. As highlighted by the global health organization, JN.1's overall risk is still low based on available information, despite its recent classification by the WHO as a variant of interest distinct from its known BA.2.86 lineage.
With cabinet members Sharan Prakash Patil, HC Mahadevappa, and MC Sudhakar in attendance, as well as Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao, the committee's goal is to coordinate efforts to manage the current situation. Following the recent spike in COVID instances, nearby Karnataka states have also increased their alertness.
Daily COVID-19 sampling has resumed, with a focus on people who may be experiencing symptoms, according to Deputy Chief Medical and Health Officer Preetam Singh. It's alarmingly advisable to people to take all necessary precautions.
