RT-PCR test for Cabinet ministers? What rules are in place for rest of India

The Indian government has mandated an RT-PCR test for ministers meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi amid a rapid increase in the number of Covid-19 cases in the country, reported Times of India.

The country reported 306 fresh Covid cases in the past 24 hours, taking the tally of active cases to 7,121. Data from the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare revealed that six Covid patients died in the same period.

Of the six deaths, Kerala reported three, Karnataka two, and Maharashtra one. One victim was a 43-year-old man with a weakened immune system. The others were elderly with pre-existing respiratory and chronic health issues.

The surge in infection is being blamed on new variants, including LF.7, XFG, JN.1, and the recently identified NB.1.8.1 subvariant of Covid-19.

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Governments issue advisories

While the Union Health Ministry has not issued any new advisory so far for masses, several Indian states have issued guidelines over the past weeks, urging people to stay calm and be alert.

In response to growing Covid cases, the Karnataka government appealed to the public to cooperate with health authorities to curb the spread and maintain safety.

On May 23, the Delhi government also issued an advisory for hospitals to ensure they are ready with sufficient beds, oxygen, medications, and vaccines to deal with rising Covid cases.

Delhi CM Rekha Gupta, however, said there was "no need to worry".

"There is no need to worry. The Delhi government is alert and hospitals are prepared to deal with any eventuality," she said.

In Odisha, Health Secretary Aswathy S reassured the public that all Covid patients are stable and urged calm.

"The latest ICMR report says that the present variant does not exhibit severe symptoms, and most cases are mild. Also, the Centre has not issued any guidelines, but advised all to remain vigilant in the wake of the changing weather," she said.

In Arunachal Pradesh, state surveillance officer Lobsang Jampa encouraged residents to stay composed, noting the detected strain seems milder than previous variants.

"The health department is closely monitoring the situation and taking all necessary precautions to prevent the spread of the virus. We are also tracing all possible contacts the two women may have had," he added.

What are experts saying?

Experts have recommended maintaining Covid-appropriate behaviour, such as wearing masks, practising hand hygiene, and avoiding crowded areas.

With increasing infections, the central government has sent advisories to states and union territories, stressing preparedness and vigilance.

Medical professionals have highlighted the need to differentiate Covid-19 from other seasonal viral fevers, which present similar symptoms like fever, fatigue, and respiratory issues.