There has been a sudden increase in the cases of Kovid for some time now. This sudden spurt has raised concerns and raised many questions about the way forward. India registered a one-day increase of over 10,000 fresh Covid infections on April 23, taking the number of active cases to 67,806, according to data from the Union health ministry. According to the health ministry, the daily Covid positivity rate was recorded at 7.03 per cent, the weekly positivity rate was recorded at 5.43 per cent and the national Covid-19 recovery rate was recorded at 98.66 per cent.
As Covid cases continue to rise rapidly, the Center has asked eight states, including Uttar Pradesh, Tamil Nadu and Maharashtra, to keep a close watch on cases and take preemptive measures in any areas of concern. While the number of deaths due to Covid remained low, states and districts reporting an increase in cases may indicate local spread of the infection. According to the website of the ministry, 220.66 crore doses of Kovid-19 vaccines have been given so far under the nationwide vaccination campaign.
But what is the way forward? When is India going to be under the threat of Covid? What is the reason behind this sudden increase in Covid infection? Dr Sanjay Dhall, Director, Internal Medicine, Max Super Specialty Hospital, Shalimar Bagh explains the current Covid situation and the way forward.
Covid Cases in India: Any specific reason for the sudden increase in coronavirus cases?
According to Dr Dhal, the recent rise in Covid-19 cases is due to a lack of vigilance by the public, who believed that the virus was no longer a threat. Hence, it is necessary that people wear masks and take necessary precautions as the covid infection is still prevalent in the country.
Covid Variant: Any symptoms to look out for for this coronavirus variant?
Dr Dhal said, “The recently identified XBB 1.16 variant of COVID-19 is essentially a sub-variant of the Omicron strain. This particular variant has the ability to evade our immune system and is highly infectious. Although the variant is highly contagious, it usually causes mild symptoms in patients. The risk of hospitalization or death is minimal. Symptoms include headache, sore throat, cold, cough and fever, and fatigue.”
COVID-19 Guidelines: Precautionary measures to follow
Dr Dhall shared that taking precautions is of paramount importance. “To combat the rise in COVID-19 cases, it is essential to continue following COVID-appropriate behaviour, including wearing masks, avoiding crowded places, washing hands regularly, taking proper care of your health and This includes following all the precautions taken earlier. peak of the pandemic,” he said.
Covid deaths in India: Is this a life-threatening version of Covid?
Dr Dhal said, “It has been observed that this variant is less fatal as the hospitalization rate is relatively lower as compared to the delta variant as the disease caused by this strain is not as severe. Also, widespread vaccination and Herd immunity is occurring as a result of factors such as previous infection. Although the variant is highly contagious, it usually causes mild symptoms in patients. The risk of hospitalization or death is minimal.
However, individuals with pre-existing conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure and heart disease may be at a higher risk of developing severe disease. Hence, it is very important for these people to take utmost care, he added.