Following the discovery of a case of COVID-19 sub-variant JN.1 in neighboring Kerala, the Karnataka government ordered that persons over the age of 60 who had comorbidities and symptoms of cough, phlegm, and fever wear face masks.
Increased testing for persons with such symptoms and suspected cases, as well as increased monitoring in border areas, are among the steps that authorities have been directed to implement, according to Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao.
The situation is being closely followed, and there is currently no need for any restrictions on the movement or gathering of individuals, he said, adding that the government will issue advice.
“There is no cause for people to be concerned. We had a meeting the day before yesterday, and our technical advisory group, led by Dr (K) Ravi, met yesterday, and there was debate amongst our officials and specialists about the next steps,” Rao added.
“Those over the age of 60, as well as those with comorbidities such as heart, kidney, and other issues, as well as those with cough, phlegm, and fever, should wear masks. We are informing the public about this. We have also urged our hospitals and health centers to be ready. More monitoring is needed in border areas like Kodagu, Dakshina Kannada, and Chamarajanagara, which share a border with Kerala,” he noted.
He said that the government will consider what additional steps to take depending on the scenario. Along with increased border monitoring, directives have been given to expand testing, and people with symptoms and suspected cases are being required to undergo testing.
“We’ll know in a few days whether the infections are increasing or not.” If more positive instances are documented as we expand COVID testing, we will decide on further actions that must be done. “There is no need to impose any curbs or restrictions right now,” Rao said.
On whether there would be any restrictions on Ayyappa pilgrims returning from Kerala, Rao said that there are currently no restrictions on mobility and gathering.
“We will not stop any such thing now, because such a situation — where people should not move or gather — is not there,” he said.
“We will monitor the situation daily, and if we receive any negative information, we will advise on what needs to be done. Wearing masks is recommended for adults over the age of 60, as well as those with comorbidities and respiratory disorders. We will make it compulsory. The government will release an advisory today.“
The Minister stated that district health officials conducted a mock drill at all hospitals to check their preparedness, noting that checks were conducted on the number of beds, ventilators, oxygen supply, masks, testing, and PPE kits, among other things that are required in case of emergency.
“Instructions have been given to make necessary preparations at all health centers and taluk and district hospitals,” he said.
