Omicron: Everyone should be extra vigilant, those with symptoms should avoid going out in secret, says Minister Veena George

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Minister Veena George has said that everyone should be extra vigilant amid a spike in Covid cases in the state.

"The number of Omicron cases in the state has risen to 421. Daily Covid cases have crossed 10,000. Everyone should be careful in this situation. Crowds should be kept to a minimum. Self-protection is paramount. Those going down in public places must wear N95 maks or resort to double masking. People with fever and symptoms should not go out in public in secret. Do not hide your illness. Covid test should be done as per the instructions of the health workers", the minister said.

"Omicron has a short incubation period but spreads rapidly. The main symptoms of Omicron are cold, sore throat, cough, shortness of breath and fever. In addition, it can be spread widely without symptoms. So everyone should follow the Covid protocol. Omicron is more likely to spread through family, friends and institutions. Everyone should wear masks correctly, taking into account the possibility of silent transmission of Omicron".

"Covid cases are on the rise and the number of people seeking hospital treatment is declining. Therefore, all those who need to be vaccinated should get jabbed as soon as possible. Everyone should protect themselves as people could get infected from anyone. If there are too many cases together, the number of people being treated in the hospital will increase. Health workers also need to be careful not to fall sick together. Everyone should pay more attention to prevention so that Covid cases do not stretch our health system".

People with comorbidities are very high in the state. People with related diseases such as diabetes should ensure disease control. Covid can be serious in the elderly, people with serious illnesses and respiratory illnesses. So travel and crowds should be avoided as much as possible. Utilize e-Sanjeevani services to minimize hospital visits. Do not let down your guard after vaccination or after getting infected. Those who once contracted the virus can get infected again. Those who go to institutions, shops and shopping malls should follow the exact Covid guidelines. Give priority to Covid defense in view of the situation prevailing in the state", the minister added.