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Bengaluru: In response to the rise in JN.1 coronavirus variant infections, the Karnataka government has initiated a series of preventive measures. The Karnataka government’s cabinet sub-committee on coronavirus has advised people to wear masks, not send children with symptoms to schools, adhere to COVID appropriate behaviour like social distancing, seven days home isolation and leave for infected patients. It has also decided to administer “precautionary vaccine” for the aged and those with comorbidities and to get 30,000 doses of Corbevax vaccine from the Centre for this purpose.
To implement these measures, the government is planning to purchase 30,000 doses of Corbevax vaccine from the Centre. Despite the rise in cases, state health minister Dinesh Gundu Rao has clarified that there will be no restrictions on New Year celebrations. However, detailed guidelines will be issued soon to ensure public safety.
In an effort to maintain workforce productivity during this health crisis, the government has ordered that employees in both the government and private sectors who are in isolation at home be granted casual leave for one week. Special leave has been allotted for those who require hospitalization.
Karnataka has reported 34 cases of the JN.1 variant, making it the state with the highest number of cases across the country. However, the Health Minister has urged the public to remain calm and stressed that there is no need to panic. The state is ramping up testing processes, reviewing health facilities and conducting death audits. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has encouraged persons aged 60 and above to wear masks both indoors and outdoors to reduce the risk.
The Karnataka government remains cautious in view of the possible health crisis. By strictly adhering to preventive measures, increasing testing and emphasizing wearing of masks, the state aims to contain the spread of the JN.1 variant. These measures, along with continued monitoring of the situation, demonstrate the government’s commitment to public health and safety. As the New Year approaches, citizens are urged to celebrate responsibly, keeping in mind the continued presence of the virus.
