Dr. Chandrashekar’s exclusive insights: COVID-19’s re-entry poses no major threat for now

With COVID-19 cases reappearing in Karnataka, particularly in Bengaluru, concerns have been mounting among residents. However, renowned virologist Dr. Chandrashekar, in an exclusive conversation with NewsFirst Prime, has reassured the public that there’s no significant reason to panic despite the recent spike.

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In the last 24 hours, Karnataka recorded a COVID-19 positivity rate of 19.37%. While earlier assessments suggested a danger threshold if the positivity rate exceeded 5%, Dr. Chandrashekar emphasized that the current situation isn’t alarming. He explained that even though 19% of tests conducted returned positive results, it’s not a sign of widespread threat.

Dr. Chandrashekar noted that around 70-80% of people who tested positive during earlier COVID-19 waves are unlikely to get reinfected. Additionally, individuals who have been vaccinated, about 70% of the population have strong protection, making the virus’s impact less severe even if they contract it. Although the virus appears to spread faster now, it doesn’t spread as widely as it did during the first wave when vaccines weren’t available. Back then, one infected person could transmit the virus to 10 or more people, creating a chain reaction. Now, with widespread vaccination, such chains are much less likely.

However, Dr. Chandrashekar cautioned against complacency. He advised the public to continue wearing masks and take necessary precautions, even if the situation doesn’t call for immediate concern. Staying alert is essential to prevent further transmission.