Bengaluru braces for Covid-19 surge: BBMP holds urgent meeting

The rise in Covid-19 cases across Karnataka has sparked fresh concerns, with 47 active cases reported in the state so far. Of these, 46 are under home isolation and one patient is currently hospitalized. The health department conducted tests on 104 individuals in the last 24 hours, confirming 9 new cases.

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In response to the growing number of cases, the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) has stepped up measures to control the situation. A high-level meeting was convened today under the leadership of Chief Commissioner Maheshwar Rao. The meeting will be attended by special commissioners from eight BBMP zones and health officials to discuss crucial strategies for containing the virus.

Health experts have advised vulnerable groups, particularly pregnant women and children, to exercise caution. The meeting emphasized the need for swift treatment for symptomatic cases, expansion of testing facilities, readiness of hospital beds, and close monitoring of Severe Acute Respiratory Infection (SARI) cases.

The state government is now closely watching the positivity rate, especially in Bengaluru. An official health bulletin will be released by the health department, which is expected to reveal the latest positivity rates. Authorities have indicated that if the positivity rate exceeds 5%, the situation will be deemed serious, prompting stricter containment measures.

During the first two waves of the pandemic, positivity rates served as a key factor in implementing lockdowns, mandatory mask policies, and other preventive measures. The health bulletin will once again serve as a basis for deciding on possible interventions. The Covid-19 Technical Advisory Committee is also expected to meet shortly to assess the severity of the new variant and discuss necessary containment strategies, including mandatory masking and restrictions on crowded places.