With the number of cases due to the newly detected Omicron variant of Covid-19 is rising steadily, the central government on Thursday advised states and Union Territories (UTs) to consider imposing local curbs and containment measures.
In a review meeting held today, the Centre has advised the states to not let their guard down and maintain their preparedness for fighting the virus.
Union Health Secretary Rajesh Bhushan reviewed the pandemic situation with several state-and district-level authorities. During the meeting, he highlighted, “the trajectory of COVID has brought attention to emerging evidence on the Omicron variant of COVID-19 driving the growing number of cases worldwide.”
“Any restriction must be enforced for minimum of 14 days, they were advised. As symptoms of Omicron variant closely mimic common cold with a higher rate of transmissibility and doubling time, syndromic approach for COVID containment can be employed,” the statement added.
Bhushan also advised to impose night curfews and ensure strict regulation of large gatherings, especially ahead of the upcoming festivities.