TFP Bureau, New Delhi, Dec 19, 2023: In response to a recent spike in COVID-19 cases and the detection of the JN.1 variant in India, Shri Sudhansh Pant, Union Health Secretary, has issued a comprehensive advisory to all States and Union Territories. The advisory emphasizes the necessity for continuous vigilance in monitoring the evolving COVID-19 situation.
Acknowledging the collaborative efforts between the Centre and State Governments that have maintained low infection rates, Shri Sudhansh Pant stressed the importance of sustaining momentum to effectively address public health challenges.
The critical COVID-19 control and management strategies outlined in the advisory include:
1. Preventive Measures for Festive Season: States were advised to implement necessary public health measures to minimize the risk of increased disease transmission during the upcoming festive season, emphasizing adherence to respiratory hygiene.
2. Compliance with Operational Guidelines: Effective compliance with detailed operational guidelines for the revised surveillance strategy for COVID-19, provided by the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, was stressed.
3. Monitoring and Reporting: States were directed to monitor and report district-wise Influenza-like Illness (ILI) and Severe Acute Respiratory Illness (SARI) cases regularly in health facilities, including the Integrated Health Information Platform (IHIP) portal, to detect early rising trends.
4. Testing Strategies: Ensuring adequate testing in all districts, following COVID-19 testing guidelines, and maintaining the recommended ratio of RT-PCR and Antigen tests were highlighted.
5. Increased RT-PCR Tests and Genome Sequencing: States were encouraged to increase the number of RT-PCR tests and send positive samples for genome sequencing to Indian SARS COV-2 Genomics Consortium (INSACOG) laboratories to enable timely detection of new variants, if any.
6. Preparedness Drills: Active participation of public and private health facilities in drills conducted by the Union Health Ministry to assess preparedness and response capacities.
7. Community Awareness: States were urged to promote community awareness, seeking continued support for managing COVID-19, with a focus on adherence to respiratory hygiene.*
The advisory aims to equip states to proactively address the challenges posed by the recent surge in COVID-19 cases and the emergence of the new variant.
