Is the Covid Situation Being Monitored? Health Experts Say No Need to Panic
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Synopsis
As Covid-19 cases rise, health experts assure the public that the situation is under control. With ongoing monitoring and simple precautions advised, there's no reason to panic. Discover insights from leading medical professionals on how to stay safe during this time.
Key Takeaways
- Covid-19 cases are under constant monitoring.
- No need to panic; follow health guidelines.
- Wear masks in crowded areas.
- Hygiene practices are crucial.
- Variants NB.1.8.1 and LF.7 are being monitored.
New Delhi, May 24 (NationPress) Amid rising Covid-19 cases sparking new concerns about the pandemic that has taken millions of lives worldwide, health experts from the Indian Medical Association and the Delhi Medical Association reassured the public that the situation is under continuous observation and there is no cause for alarm.
As per the Ministry of Health's data, India has recorded 257 active Covid-19 infections as of May 19.
The states of Kerala (69), Maharashtra (44), and Tamil Nadu (34) are seeing the highest number of daily cases.
Delhi has reported 23 new infections, alongside cases in Gurugram (2), Faridabad (1), and Noida (1).
Dr. Dinesh Goel, a paediatrician and the President of IMA Janak Puri, stated, "With Covid-19 cases surfacing across various regions in India, panic is unwarranted. We recommend heightened surveillance and ongoing public education."
He further emphasized the importance of simple precautions, such as wearing masks in crowded settings and practicing good hygiene.
Similarly, Dr. Amarjeet Singh Popli from the Delhi Medical Association urged caution without fear. “There is no reason to panic regarding the recent surge in Covid-19 cases. Health authorities are closely monitoring the situation,” he informed IANS.
The ongoing increase in cases is attributed to Omicron and its subvariant JN.1, which are currently under careful watch.
Latest reports from the Indian SARS-CoV-2 Genomics Consortium (INSACOG), established under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, indicate that the variants NB.1.8.1 and LF.7, both descendants of JN.1, are contributing to the uptick in infections.
INSACOG data showed one case of NB.1.8.1 and four occurrences of LF.7 within the country.
NB.1.8.1 was first detected in Tamil Nadu back in April, while Gujarat reported four cases of LF.7 in May.
Both LF.7 and NB.1.8.1 have now been designated as Variants Under Monitoring (VUM) by the World Health Organization (WHO).
The term VUM indicates that public health officials should prioritize these variants for further attention and monitoring.
In response to the evolving situation, the Delhi government has issued guidelines urging hospitals to ensure readiness with beds, oxygen, medications, and vaccines.
Popli advised the public to adhere to basic precautions like wearing masks in crowded locations and maintaining hygiene, stating, “With responsible actions, we can ensure our safety.”
Point of View
It's vital to communicate that while the rise in Covid-19 cases is concerning, the situation is being actively monitored by health authorities. The public is encouraged to follow recommended precautions without succumbing to panic. Continuous public awareness and responsible behavior are essential in navigating this health challenge.
NationPress
01/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Are the current Covid-19 cases serious?
While there is an increase in cases, health experts confirm that the situation is under constant monitoring. Precautions should be taken, but panic is unnecessary.
What precautions should be taken during this surge?
It is advised to wear masks in crowded areas and maintain good hygiene practices to minimize the risk of infection.
What variants are currently being monitored?
The variants NB.1.8.1 and LF.7, descendants of Omicron subvariant JN.1, are being closely observed by health authorities.
How many active cases are there in India?
As of May 19, India has reported 257 active Covid-19 cases, with the highest counts in Kerala, Maharashtra, and Tamil Nadu.
What is the government's response to rising cases?
The Delhi government has issued an advisory for hospitals to prepare for bed availability, oxygen, medicines, and vaccines.
