K'taka: CM Siddaramaiah urges schools to grant leave to students with fever, cold amid Covid concerns

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has issued a key directive to all schools across the state, urging them to grant immediate leave to students exhibiting symptoms such as fever, cold, and cough. The instruction came during a high-level meeting to assess the Covid-19 preparedness and current health scenario in the state.

Also read: Covid-19 resurgence: India records 752 new cases amid emergence of two new variants

The CM emphasized the need for vigilance and proactive measures, directing schools to avoid the risk of Covid transmission by sending symptomatic children home. He further called for weekly meetings of the Covid Task Force to review developments and ensure readiness. “A dedicated helpline should be launched, and the situation must not escalate like the previous waves,” he stressed.

Siddaramaiah also asked health officials to review the availability of Covid vaccines and ensure hospitals are fully equipped with essential facilities including beds, oxygen, and ventilators.

Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao, who was present at the meeting, informed that there were currently no new vaccination guidelines from the Centre. However, he assured the CM that he would check with vaccine manufacturers about supply readiness.

The CM instructed that parents be advised not to send unwell children to school, and that schools and colleges must actively monitor students’ health. “Public preparedness is crucial,” he said, urging all departments to coordinate and prevent any resurgence of Covid cases.