The Union health ministry Mr. Mansukh Mandaviya has instructed all hospitals and labs designated as sentinel sites to increase surveillance in facilities where random samples are frequently collected to evaluate the Covid trend in the nation. In order to search for any potential mutations, they have also been asked to perform whole genome sequencing. The steps come after the appearance of new Omicron variants in various nations, which has caused a sharp increase in viral infection cases.

Indian states like Kerala and Maharashtra have reported novel Omicron strains, such as BQ.1 and XBB, which have increased infection rates in the US and Singapore.

Hence the Union health minister emphasized the necessity for efficient Covid-19 surveillance and proper testing during a Covid review meeting on Tuesday to analyze and quickly stop the spread of infection. He also recommended authorities keep a careful eye on hospitalizations brought on by Covid-19.

As Diwali draws near, there is an increase in congestion in public spaces, particularly in marketplaces and malls, with few people adhering to COVID-19 protocols. Mr. Mandaviya stated that community awareness to continue implementing the Covid appropriate behaviour (CAB) was necessary. He also urged them to speed up immunization, giving preventative doses to the eligible recipients.

(Source: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/centre-calls-for-stepping-up-of-vaccine-drive-amid-threat-of-new-variants/articleshow/95000978.cms)