Covid surge in China: Centre advises to mask up in crowded places

Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya held a high-level review meeting with top officials and experts to chalk out strategies to prevent another spike in COVID-19 cases on Wednesday. This comes after a surge in infections in China.

The secretaries of the departments of health, Ayush, pharmaceuticals and biotechnology, Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) Director General Rajiv Bahl, Member (Health) of NITI Aayog VK Paul and National Technical Advisory Group on Immunization (NTAGI) Chairman NL Arora, and other senior officials attended the meeting.

After the meeting, the minister tweeted, “In view of the rising cases of #Covid19 in some countries, reviewed the situation with experts and officials today. COVID is not over yet. I have directed all concerned to be alert and strengthen surveillance. We are prepared to manage any situation (sic).”

Post the meeting, Dr. VK Paul of NITI Aayog said that people should take precautionary doses, especially senior citizens. He said, “Only 27-28 percent of people have taken precautionary doses. We appeal to others, especially senior citizens, to take a precautionary dose. Precaution dose is mandated and guided to everyone. Use a mask if you are in a crowded space, indoors or outdoors. This is all the more important for people with comorbidities or is of higher age.”