Kerala Surpasses 2,000 Active Covid-19 Cases with 292 Fresh Infections

Kerala witnessed a surge in Covid-19 cases, crossing the 2,000 active cases mark as the state reported 292 new infections, according to the latest data from the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. The state now contributes to 88 percent of the total active Covid-19 cases in the country.

In the past 24 hours, two individuals succumbed to Covid-19 in Kerala, bringing the cumulative death toll to 72,056, as per official records. However, the state health department has yet to release detailed information on the recent infections or the deceased. Notably, the state's Covid dashboard has not been updated since September 9, 2022.

Health Minister Veena George convened a meeting with top health officials on Tuesday, emphasizing the importance of vigilance over spreading fear and panic. In response to the escalating situation, it was decided during the meeting to enforce mandatory mask-wearing at all hospitals across the state. Special attention will be directed to Thiruvananthapuram and Ernakulam districts, which have been reporting the majority of the recent cases.

Addressing concerns, Health Minister Veena George dismissed reports of a significant spike in Covid infections in the state on Monday. She clarified that the health department had been closely monitoring a gradual increase in cases since November. Whole genomic sequencing revealed the presence of the JN.1 sub-variant of the Omicron variant of Covid-19.

Minister George highlighted that routine surveillance at the Singapore airport identified 15 travelers from various parts of India who tested positive for the JN.1 sub-variant of Covid, indicating the variant's presence in other states across the country. The health authorities are closely monitoring the situation and have urged citizens to remain vigilant in the face of the evolving Covid scenario.