India: Gradual increase in the COVID-19 positivity rate in some states amid a rise in the seasonal influenza subtype H3N2 is a matter of concern for all. The government on Saturday expressed its concern and said that this issue should be promptly addressed. Requesting all States and Union Territories, the centre asked to follow the necessary guidelines and take a stock of hospital preparedness. Union Health Secretary Rajesh Bhushan in a letter to States and Union Territories said that it is a concerning issue.
Government requested all states and Union territories to follow operational guidelines for integrated surveillance of respiratory pathogens presenting as cases of influenza-like illness (ILI) or severe acute respiratory infection (SARI). The states were also requested to take a stock of hospital preparedness such as the availability of drugs and medical oxygen and vaccination coverage against COVID-19 and influenza.
“While the COVID-19 trajectory has decreased substantially in the last few months, the gradual rise in COVID-19 test positivity rates in some states is a concerning issue that needs to be promptly addressed,” Union Health Secretary Rajesh Bhushan said in a letter to states and UTs on Saturday.
