On Wednesday, almost 6,842 people tested COVID-positive in the last 24 hours in Delhi. Delhi has recorded more than 6,000 fresh cases for the 2nd consecutive day. It is the highest single day count till date in the city, followed by 6,725 cases that were recorded on Tuesday.

As per government data, Wednesday’s record-breaking total numbers of 58,910 tests were conducted in the last 24 hours. Out of this, 14,574 (25%) tests were being conducted using RT-PCR/CBNAAT/True Nat, and is considered the gold standard for COVID-19 testing, whereas 44,336 (75%) tests were conducted using rapid antigen test kits that gives faster result, however has lower sensitivity rate. The total positivity rate and the number of positive cases from those who were tested, reached at 11.6%, nearly four times the national average rate. The infection total count in Delhi has crossed 4.1 lakh mark, whereas the death count stood at 6,703. 51 new fatalities were recorded in the last 24 hours.

Public health specialists have cautioned that the new cases can arise further in the coming next few weeks as people are flocking to markets for festival shopping. Also, cold weather and air pollution are acting as key factors and contributing to the spread of the coronavirus.

As per a recent research that was published in International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health (IJERPH), a particulate matter and a key pollutant, can create a suitable environment for carrying the virus to greater distances than those who are considered for close contact. Scientists said that particulate matter can induce inflammation in lung cells and can also increase the susceptibility and severity of COVID-19 symptoms.

Dr J C Suri, Director and head of pulmonology at Fortis Hospital, Vasant Kunj said that the health infrastructure, particularly critical care facilities, is already under pressure. If COVID-19 cases continue to increase, then soon they might reach a breaking point where the system won’t be able to handle the patient load. Hence, it is very important to be stern with adherence to preventive measures of maintaining social distance and wearing masks.

Several COVID-19 patients are developing early stage pulmonary-fibrosis or scarring of the pulmonary tissues. DR Rajesh Chawla, senior consultant of pulmonology and critical care at Apollo Hospital said that this can lead to decreased pulmonary functions. Air pollution consists of various gases and suspending particles that can cause further worsening of respiratory symptoms and can have long-term impact on lungs.

Source: ET Healthworld