Bengaluru: Here’s what Karnataka Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao said on current Covid situation

Karnataka Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao addressed the media after the cabinet subcommittee meeting. Here’s what he said:

1. We have discussed in length the measures that need to be taken to contain Covid spread.
2. There is a high possibility of the JN.1 variant spreading.
3. All of us have to be extremely careful.
4. The CM has instructed us not to be flippant.
5. We will be conducting 5000 tests today.
6. We will increase testing and genomic sequencing as well.
7. There are 436 active cases in Karnataka. While 400 are taking rest in their houses, 36 have been admitted to hospitals.
8. Our doctors are keeping a track on these 400 people.
9. We are taking care that there are sufficient beds and oxygen supply (mobile oxygen container, oxygen generation plants to come up.)
10. There is a rise in cases in Karnataka and Kerala because of more testing.
11. The WHO has assured that there is no need to fear.
12. Genomic sequencing to be held in BMRCI.
13. We will take 30,000 vaccinations from the Centre. We have also decided to give precautionary and booster doses.
14. It is better if people wear masks. It is mandatory for those who are 60 years and above to wear masks.
15. If children suffer from cold, cough and fever, please keep them indoors.

Amid the new year celebrations, it is advisable to people who venture out into crowds to exercise caution by wearing mask and taking responsibility of themselves and others in the wake of a spurt in Covid JN.1 variant cases.