Karnataka points ‘masks up’ advisory, will increase Covid-19 testing

The Karnataka authorities has issued an advisory asking the aged and weak to masks up. They’re additionally strongly suggested to keep away from closed and poorly-ventilated areas.

Anticipating a possible surge in Covid-19 circumstances because of the emergence of the JN.1 subvariant within the neighbouring states of Kerala and Tamil Nadu, the Karnataka authorities has issued an advisory asking the aged and weak to masks up. The state has additionally stepped up testing and Entire Genome Sequencing (WGS) of confirmed circumstances, in line with Swarajya journal.

The World Well being Group (WHO) on Tuesday labeled the JN.1 coronavirus pressure as a “variant of curiosity”, however mentioned it didn’t pose a lot menace to public well being. JN.1 was beforehand labeled as a variant of curiosity as part of its guardian lineage BA.2.86.

On Tuesday, the Karnataka authorities circulated an advisory primarily based on suggestions made by the state’s Covid-19 technical advisory committee. Here’s what the Karnataka advisory to most of the people entails:

The Karnataka authorities is urging people aged 60 and above, particularly these with comorbidities (kidney, coronary heart and liver illnesses) to put on masks when outside.

Pregnant girls and lactating moms are additionally inspired to put on masks when stepping out.

They’re strongly suggested to keep away from closed and poorly-ventilated areas in addition to crowded areas.

Individuals experiencing respiratory illnesses corresponding to cough, chilly, fever, and runny nostril are suggested to hunt medical session on the earliest.

“When unwell, keep at house, and minimise contact with different individuals, particularly seniors and people who are weak. At crowded locations, notably, if not well-ventilated, sporting a masks is suggested,” the advisory mentioned.

“When travelling abroad, keep vigilant and undertake related journey precautions, corresponding to sporting masks on the airport and inside plane, and avoiding crowded areas with poor air flow,” it added.

Good private hygiene upkeep together with frequent hand washing, is important, the round additional mentioned.

(With inputs from PTI and Reuters)