Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has urged residents and officials not to panic despite a recent rise in Covid-19 cases in the state, emphasizing the importance of readiness and vigilance. Speaking during a meeting with health officials and ministers, Siddaramaiah stressed the need for adequate medical facilities, public awareness, and proactive measures to manage any potential escalation in infections.
Focus on Medical Preparedness
During the meeting held at his residence, Siddaramaiah instructed officials to ensure that essential resources such as oxygen supplies, ventilators, and medicines are well-stocked and easily accessible. He highlighted the importance of special care for vulnerable groups, including the elderly, pregnant women, and individuals with heart or respiratory issues, advising them to wear masks as a precaution. The Chief Minister also emphasized that pregnant women should not be shifted between hospitals unnecessarily, and that all medical centers must be properly equipped to handle emergencies.
He further urged parents to keep children showing symptoms like cold, cough, or fever at home and for schools to send symptomatic students back to their homes promptly. The state government has ramped up surveillance for Severe Acute Respiratory Infection (SARI) cases as part of ongoing Covid-19 monitoring efforts.
Ongoing Monitoring and Preventive Measures
Since January, Karnataka had only seen one or two Covid cases until a recent surge in May, when 62 new cases were reported. Siddaramaiah noted that among these cases, only one was classified as serious. He called for regular reviews of the Covid situation, recommending weekly assessments or more frequent checks if needed. Officials were also asked to prepare for setting up screening units at airports to monitor incoming passengers, should the situation worsen.
The Chief Minister directed health department staff to remain at their posts without taking leave and urged the public to follow guidelines, including vaccination as per central government recommendations. He also encouraged the use of social media to spread awareness and keep the public informed.
Meanwhile, the number of active Covid-19 cases in Karnataka rose to 80, with Bengaluru accounting for 73 of these cases. Of the 37 new cases reported on Monday, 35 were from Bengaluru, with the state’s positivity rate recorded at 19.37 percent over the last 24 hours. Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao reassured citizens that most cases were mild but stressed the importance of continued precautions to prevent further spread.
