New Delhi, January 27: Amid the Omicron-driven surge in India, Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, Odisha, Haryana and West Bengal are reporting a decline in Covid-19 cases and positivity rate while Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh and Rajasthan are witnessing high number of coronavirus cases.
Issuing an update on Covid-19 situation in India, the government on Thursday said 97.03 lakh healthcare, frontline workers and comorbid people aged 60 and above had been given precaution dose of Covid vaccine so far.
On the other hand, 59 per cent of adolescents in the 15-18 age group have received the first dose of Covid-19 vaccine so far.
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Despite early indication of plateauing Covid cases in some places, trend needs to be observed and precautions needed to be continued, says govt.[/caption]
In December, 1,292 cases of Omicron variant of coronavirus were found on genome sequencing. However, the number rose to 9,672 in January.
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The government said despite early indication of plateauing Covid cases in some places; trend needs to be observed and precautions needed to be continued.
The government said in Omicron-driven third wave, fewer coronavirus cases needed oxygen-supported beds or ICU beds.
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In Omicron-driven third wave, fewer coronavirus cases needed oxygen-supported beds or ICU beds.[/caption]
Further, active Covid-19 cases and corresponding deaths were much lower during the present wave compared to earlier surges. At least 400 districts reported over 10 per cent weekly Covid positivity while 141 districts logged 5 to 10 per cent positivity in week ending January 26, said the government.
Meanwhile, the Delhi Disaster Management Authority at its meeting on Thursday decided to lift the Covid-19 restriction of weekend curfew and odd-even rule for non-essential commercial establishment in the national capital.
According to sources, weddings can be held in the national capital with 200 persons or at 50 per cent capacity of the premises. Cinema halls, bars and restaurants can also operate at 50 per cent capacity. Delhi government offices will also operate with 50 per cent capacity.
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At least 400 districts reported over 10 per cent weekly Covid positivity while 141 districts logged 5 to 10 per cent positivity in week ending January 26.[/caption]
However, the decision on the reopening of schools will be taken up at the next DDMA meeting. Last week, the Delhi government allowed all private offices in the National Capital Territory of Delhi, outside of containment zones, to function with upto 50 per cent attendance.
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The DDMA had, however, advised the private offices to stagger office timing, presence and quantum of staff. Earlier in the month, DDMA decided to impose a curfew in Delhi on Saturdays and Sundays to curb the coronavirus surge. Covid 19: Govt mulls staggered reopening of schools across nation
The Central Government is working on a model for staggered reopening of schools for physical classes while adhering to all Covid-19 related protocols, as per sources. Amid the surge in Omicron-drive Covid-19 cases, schools have been shut in most parts of the country for physical classes. Read here -PTC News
