Amid a recent surge in COVID-19 cases, health experts emphasize the importance of adhering to safety protocols to curb the spread of the virus, particularly in crowded places.

In Visakhapatnam, where 19 positive cases were identified over the last two days, medical professionals stress the significance of measures such as mask-wearing.

According to the State Public Health and Family Welfare Director, out of 4,103 tests conducted in Andhra Pradesh since December 1, 2023, 152 cases have been confirmed positive.

Visakhapatnam alone reported 25 cases, with 20 individuals undergoing home isolation and five admitted to hospitals. Other districts affected include NTR, Kurnool, Guntur, Eluru, and East Godavari.

Dr. K. Rambabu, Director of Visakha Institute of Medical Sciences (VIMS), assures the availability of oxygen beds in government hospitals and the implementation of RT-PCR tests at King George Hospital (KGH) in Visakhapatnam.

However, he emphasizes the potential risks associated with non-compliance with safety protocols in large gatherings, particularly for individuals with existing health conditions.

Addressing concerns about the new variant, P.V. Sudhakar, Dean of NRI Institute of Medical Sciences, identifies the JN.1 variant as a sub-type of Omicron with similar symptoms.

He recommends RT-PCR tests for detecting the virus and genome sequencing for identifying the variant. While the JN.1 variant exhibits high transmissibility, severe complications are rare, Sudhakar notes.

Experts advise individuals with co-morbid conditions and those using immuno-suppressive drugs to avoid large gatherings. Wearing masks, maintaining social distance, and frequent hand sanitization are crucial to minimizing infection risks.

Pulmonologist K. Phaninder reassures that hospitals are well-equipped to handle eventualities, but emphasizes the importance of public awareness in controlling the virus spread.

In response to the recent surge, plans for a mass campaign to educate people, especially those in slums, on the necessity of mask-wearing and safety precautions are underway. Praja Arogya Vedika general secretary

T. Kameswara Rao highlights the need for heightened awareness to address the current situation effectively.

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