Union Health Ministry Launches Nationwide Two-Day Drill To Assess COVID Preparedness Amid Rising Cases

On 10 and 11 April, a nationwide drill to evaluate the emergency readiness of public and private hospitals will take place due to an increase in Covid-19 cases. Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya will oversee the drill at All India Institute Of Medical Science (AIIMS) in Haryana's Jhajjar.

Last week, Mandaviya told state health ministers to be vigilant and assess health facilities' readiness in a review meeting.

Despite new variants, the five-fold strategy of testing, tracking, treating, vaccinating, and following Covid-appropriate behaviour is still the proven method for managing the pandemic.

The Health Minister spoke to NDTV, and he assured that the government is ready to handle the surge in infections. He confirmed measures such as ICU beds, oxygen supply, and other important arrangements are prepared. The government is constantly reviewing its readiness, the Minister informed.

Mandaviya urged for vigilance amidst the potential fourth wave of Covid. XBB1.16 sub-variant is currently driving the rise in infections, with BF.7 being the previous mutation. However, the Minister reassured that the Ministry's experience showed sub-variants were generally not too risky.

Due to a recent increase in COVID-19 cases across the country, some states have reinstated mask mandates, while others recommend being cautious.

As a preventive measure, both Haryana and Puducherry have mandated the use of face masks in public areas. Additionally, the wearing of masks has become compulsory in schools throughout Haryana.

Masks are now compulsory for certain groups ( pregnant women, the elderly and those with lifestyle diseases) in Kerala, and Uttar Pradesh is prioritising the screening of international passengers at airports.

The governments of Delhi, Maharashtra, and Himachal Pradesh have also appealed to their residents to follow COVID-appropriate behavior.