Several states are witnessing a surge in the number of Covid cases, state governments have decided to control the situation and bring in new measures before cases spread wildly. Delhi has started administering free precautionary doses for all adults (18-59 yrs.) at government vaccination centers. They have also brought back rules mandating masks in public places with a penalty fine of Rs 500 for violators, just eight days after withdrawal of the same law.

During this troublesome period, the health department has encouraged citizens to contact helpline number 1800492211 for any Covid 19-related assistance. As of Friday, India reported 2,451 new cases with the active caseload tallying up to 14,241 as per the data provided by Health Ministry. However, the national recovery rate is still stagnant at 98.75%. Thane, Maharashtra recorded 7.08 lakh total cases on Thursday with 20 new confirmed cases adding to the numbers on Friday.

Genome sequencing of the sample collected tested positive for the new subvariant BA.2.12.1 of Omicron variant BA.2 that has been sent to Covid 19 genome sequencing consortium, INSACOG, for confirmation according to the health officials. The WHO strongly recommended Pfizer’s Covid 19 antiviral pill Paxlovid for patients with milder symptoms but who still have higher chances of hospitalization.

Source: Financial Express