On Tuesday, October 18th, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, Union Health Minister, reviewed the COVID-19 situation amid the detection of cases of a new sub-variant of Omicron from parts of India. Dr. Mandaviya stated that the meeting concluded that wearing masks and following COVID-appropriate behavior should continue.

In the meeting, the minister emphasized the need to undertake adequate testing and effective COVID-19 surveillance to assess and control the spread of infection promptly. He further directed officials to focus on surveillance, including monitoring SARI and ILI cases. He told the officials to focus on whole genome sequencing (WGS) to scan for any possible mutations and urged them to increase the pace of vaccination, including precautionary doses to eligible beneficiaries.

Dr. Mandaviya also highlighted the importance of community awareness for the implementation of COVID-appropriate behavior, especially given the upcoming festival season.

Dr. Lav Aggarwal, Additional Secretary, presented a detailed presentation on the global scenario of COVID-19 cases, primarily the surge in Europe, and an analysis of various Omicron variants. The presentation included a detailed analysis of the COVID situation in India, including the latest trends, such as daily cases being reported, active cases, case positivity, and testing status, along with state-wise weekly test per million reports.

(Source: https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/mandaviya-reviews-covid-19-situation-mask-mandate-should-continue/article66028298.ece )