Union Health Minister Chairs High-Level Meeting to Address Rising COVID-19 Cases Across India
Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare, led a crucial meeting today to assess the current COVID-19 situation in India. The meeting aimed to review the readiness of the public health system for surveillance, containment, and management in light of the recent surge in COVID-19 cases in certain states.
Dr. Mandaviya emphasized the importance of remaining vigilant against new and emerging strains of the COVID-19 virus. Stressing the need for collaborative efforts between the Centre and States, he proposed regular mock drills at both levels to share best practices and enhance preparedness.
Key Points Highlighted in the Meeting:
- Surveillance and Monitoring:
- States urged to monitor emerging evidence of COVID-19 cases, symptoms, and severity.
- Dr. Mandaviya emphasized the ongoing threat of COVID-19 and the need for continuous monitoring.
- Genomic Sequencing and Variant Tracking:
- Strengthening the surveillance system for whole-genome sequencing through INSACOG network.
- Increased testing and referral of COVID-19 positive cases to INSACOG labs to track new variants.
- Public Awareness and Infodemic Management:
- States advised to create awareness, manage infodemic, and disseminate correct information.
- Urged to share real-time information on cases, tests, and positivity on the COVID portal.
- Preparedness Measures:
- States directed to ensure an adequate stock of medicines, oxygen, ventilators, and vaccines.
- Mock drills recommended every three months to assess the functionality of essential medical equipment.
- Global and Domestic COVID-19 Scenario:
- Secretary of the Union Health Ministry provided insights into the global and domestic COVID-19 situation.
- Noted a recent steep rise in active cases in India and highlighted the importance of vigilance.
- New JN.1 Variant:
- Assured that the JN.1 variant is under scientific scrutiny but is not an immediate cause for concern.
- No clustering of cases observed in India, and all cases related to JN.1 have been mild with full recovery.
The meeting included the participation of State Health Ministers, Union Ministers of State for Health and Family Welfare, and senior officials from relevant ministries. The Union Health Minister assured states of full support from the Centre and urged collective efforts to tackle the evolving COVID-19 situation.
