In a recent update, the Delhi government has confirmed 23 new COVID-19 cases in the city over a span of ten days. The information was shared by Delhi Health Minister Pankaj Kumar Singh, who clarified that there is currently no reason for alarm. According to Singh, all patients are exhibiting mild symptoms similar to seasonal influenza, and none are in critical condition. The government is actively investigating whether these cases involve local residents or people with recent travel history, to determine the possibility of community spread.
In response to the recent uptick in cases, the Delhi health department has issued a comprehensive advisory to all hospitals in the National Capital Territory. The advisory outlines a set of preparedness measures aimed at preventing a potential surge in cases. All healthcare facilities have been instructed to ensure the availability of hospital beds, oxygen cylinders, ventilators, BiPAP machines, oxygen concentrators, and PSA oxygen plants. The advisory emphasizes that all such equipment must remain fully functional.
Testing requirements include screening 5% of influenza-like illness (ILI) cases and all severe acute respiratory infection (SARI) cases. Positive samples are to be sent for genome sequencing to detect any new variants. Mask usage in healthcare settings is also mandated.
The health department has deployed eight senior officers to conduct hospital inspections and provide situation reports. Regular public updates will be provided, and residents are urged to follow health protocols diligently.
In addition, private hospitals have also been advised to stay alert and coordinate with the government in case of any emergency. The health department will conduct mock drills to check the functional status of critical care infrastructure. Local bodies have been directed to step up surveillance and sanitation measures, especially in crowded areas and healthcare facilities. Fever clinics have been asked to remain operational and update data regularly. The public is being reminded to not ignore flu-like symptoms and seek early testing and isolation if needed.
This advisory comes amid a global uptick in COVID-19 cases, with cities like Mumbai, Chennai, and Ahmedabad also reporting rising infections, mirroring trends in places such as Hong Kong and Singapore.
(Input from Various Sources)
(Rehash/Sakshi Thakar/MSM)