Kochi in heightened vigil, concern on rise in number of patients, says V S Sunil Kumar

KOCHI: The rise in the number of patients in Kochi is a cause of concern, said Minister V S Sunil Kumar. There are nearly 16 patients under the Kochi Corporation limits. A 66-year-old woman in the harbour has been confirmed of the virus. The Chellanam harbour has been closed following that. 15 and 16 wards in Chellanam have been made containment zones. People including doctors are under observation in the district. Markets and malls will be controlled strictly. COVID protocol will be followed in the district after controlling mass gatherings, the minister said.

Meantime, the swab samples of fifty people will be collected to examine whether there is community transmission in Ernakulam market. The samples of those residing in Pookkaramukku sector and employees of nearby business firm will be collected. Twelve in the market have been confirmed of the virus.

Three doctors and others including nurses who treated the pregnant woman of Pallithod in Cherthala confirmed of the disease, have gone into quarantine. The labour room in Cherthala taluk hospital has been closed temporarily. Her husband working in Chellanam Harbour has closed as part of precautionary measures. Their source of the disease has not been found so far.