Three arrivals from high-risk countries test positive for COVID-19: Veena George

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Health Minister Veena George on Monday said that samples of three persons, who arrived in the state from high-risk countries, have turned positive for COVID-19. Samples of the persons, who tested positive for COVID-19, have been sent for genome sequencing to ascertain the presence of the Omicron variant.

"The screening of passengers who arrive in Kerala is being carried out as per the central guidelines. Initially, people, who came from Russia, were not screened as Russia was not among the high-risk countries as per the central guidelines. As per the new guidelines issued by the Centre, Russia is among the high-risk countries. Passengers coming from Russia are also being screened now," the minister said.

The minister also clarified that DMOs were not restrained from speaking to the media.