THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The state health department has said it will allow bystanders for those COVID patients who need help in various hospitals across the state. Health Minister KK Shailaja said that instructions have been given in this regard. The hospital superintendents have been given instructions to allow bystanders for COVID patients.

The action was taken after a COVID patient was infested with maggots at the Thiruvananthapuram Medical College. The patient's relative may be the bystander. The bystander must be a healthy person and should give written consent.