**Kerala Sees Rise in Covid-19 Cases: Health Minister Urges Vigilance**
Kerala has reported 335 new Covid-19 infections, bringing the total active cases in the state to 430. This surge places Kerala among the states with the highest number of new cases in India, alongside Maharashtra and Delhi, over the past week. Health Minister Veena George has emphasized the need for vigilance in light of the increasing active cases, particularly as similar trends are observed in countries like Hong Kong and Singapore, where the Omicron sub-variants LF.7 and NB.1.8 are contributing to a rise in infections.
In a recent statement to local media, George revealed that a meeting of the state’s Rapid Response Team was convened to discuss strategies to manage the uptick in cases. She noted that Kottayam district currently has the highest number of active Covid cases at 57, followed by Ernakulam with 34 and Thiruvananthapuram with 30. “Covid cases are being reported in large numbers in South East Asian countries, and there is a possibility of an increase in Covid in Kerala as well,” George stated. “While the severity is not high, self-defence is important.”
Last week, a high-level meeting of the Rapid Response Team, led by George, resulted in several key decisions. These include increasing testing for symptomatic individuals, stocking RTPCR kits and safety equipment in hospitals, and mandating mask-wearing within hospital premises. Health workers are now required to wear masks at all times to ensure safety.
According to the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, India currently has 1,009 active Covid cases, with notable increases also reported in Maharashtra and Delhi. Additionally, Karnataka has reported 34 new cases, while Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, and Telangana have reported four, three, and one new cases, respectively.
As the situation evolves, health officials continue to monitor trends closely and encourage the public to remain cautious and proactive in their health measures.
**FAQ**
**What measures is Kerala taking to manage the rise in Covid-19 cases?**
Kerala is ramping up testing for symptomatic individuals, stocking hospitals with RTPCR kits and safety equipment, and enforcing mask mandates in healthcare settings to curb the spread of Covid-19.
