THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Health minister K K Shylaja has said that covid tests have been increased in the state. “Covid cases in the state have increased to unprecedented levels. Those who got involved in the poll activities will be tested in the first phase,” she said.

“Only 11 per cent of people in Kerala got infected by the pandemic. But if an outbreak happens then others could also get infected by the pandemic. To prevent this we are again entering into break the chain campaign. Compared to other states, the vaccination drive in Kerala is going on in an effective manner. Only five lakh vaccines are left now. The state must get 50 lakh vaccines immediately. Then only the mass vaccination campaign in the state will succeed,” she added.

“Have asked the centre to dispatch equal batches of covid shield and covid vaccine. If the cases rise to exponential levels, the state might face dire scarcity of oxygen. The centre must ensure there is no shortage of vaccines. Everybody’s involvement and cooperation are necessary for pandemic prevention,” K K Shailaja further said.

“The death rates in Kerala has not risen further. If sufficient number of vaccines are not given, then vaccination drive in the state might get halted. If people abide by regulations declared by the government then the second wave will not rise further to alarming levels. The government is making every attempt to bring the covid situation under control. Until the union government puts a bar on interstate travel, the state will not put any regulations,” the health minister added.