Testing is decreasing in 9 states: Despite the increasing cases, the states are careless, UP, Punjab and Bihar are also included; Center gave strict warning

The central government has become alert due to the new variant Omicron being found more in the rapidly increasing cases of corona virus in the country. The Center has expressed concern about low testing, especially in 9 states and union territories, despite the increase in cases. Along with this, by writing a letter to these 9 states / UTs, warning them to increase the number of Kovid-19 tests immediately. These 9 states include Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Uttarakhand, Jammu and Kashmir, Bihar, Tamil Nadu, Mizoram, Meghalaya and Odisha.

Elections to be held in four out of 9 states
The 9 states which have been warned by the Center on less testing. Assembly elections in 4 of them are to be held within the next two months. The term of the Legislative Assemblies in Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Uttarakhand and Manipur is ending in the next two to three months. But due to the rising corona cases in these states, the Election Commission is constantly under pressure to avoid putting up lines for voting at the moment.

Warning given about massive drop in testing
According to PTI news agency, in a letter written by Additional Health Secretary Aarti Ahuja, a warning has been given about the massive decline in Kovid-19 testing in these states. It has also said that the decrease in testing is a matter of ‘great concern’ amid the rapid increase in new cases and positive rate.

In a letter dated January 5, Ahuja categorically warned that due to lack of adequate testing, it is impossible to get accurate data on the spread of infection at the community level.

Vigilance is necessary due to increase in new cases despite vaccination
Ahuja has said that the cases of Omicron, which are considered as Variant of Concern, are increasing and despite the high level of vaccination in most countries of the world, a new wave of corona is coming on a large scale. Due to this, only by keeping constant vigilance, the situation of corona in the country can be saved from getting worse as before.

Do not let the stock of testing kits run out
The Center has advised the states not to let the stock of testing reagents and kits go short. Also, keep making regular arrangements for testing facilities and logistics.