Bengaluru, June 3 (NationPress) The Health and Family Welfare Department of Karnataka has officially reported that the active Covid-19 cases in the state have surpassed the 300-mark.

With the majority of schools reopening on Monday following summer breaks, authorities are on heightened alert.

The total active Covid-19 cases have reached 311, with 87 individuals testing positive for the virus in the past 24 hours, as stated by the Health and Family Welfare department.

Across the state, 504 individuals were tested.

During the same timeframe, 29 patients were discharged.

The positivity rate for Covid-19 stands at 17.2%, while the case fatality rate remains at zero percent.

Out of the 311 active patients, 297 are in home quarantine, 14 are hospitalized, and 3 are in Intensive Care Units across government and private hospitals.

In light of rising Covid-19 concerns, authorities are also monitoring an increase in cases of Severe Acute Respiratory Infection (SARI) and influenza.

Health department sources indicate that the total cases of SARI and influenza have risen to 4,536 since January of this year.

In the past week alone, 154 SARI cases were reported.

Officials have noted a concerning trend of rising incidents.

The government is facilitating Covid-19 testing for patients exhibiting symptoms of SARI and influenza.

Medical professionals have urged the public not to ignore symptoms such as fever, cough, fatigue, nasal congestion, runny nose, headaches, breathing difficulties, and sore throat.

Bengaluru remains a hotspot for Covid-19, with the highest number of active cases recorded here.

In other news, State Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao announced the expansion of the Gruha Arogya Yojana (Home Health Scheme), now including 14 non-communicable diseases for screening.

The Minister pointed out that non-communicable diseases pose a serious risk to public health.

While the private healthcare sector focuses on treatment, it is essential to proactively prevent non-communicable diseases.

He stressed that the government should take the lead in this initiative, as others may not prioritize it.

As a responsible government, the State Health Department is broadening the Gruha Arogya Yojana statewide to combat non-communicable diseases, the Minister noted.

Additionally, Minister Rao stated that the program will screen individuals over the age of 30 in every household to ensure they receive appropriate medications.

This initiative was first implemented in Kolar district.