THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Health Minister Veena George has said that there is no need to worry about the current situation in the state and instructed the state to remain vigilant due to the rising Covid cases in other states. She directed to monitor the situation in the districts very closely.

The number of cases increasing in Kochi on a small scale. In case of rising of Covid cases or formation of clusters, it should be informed in the state level. All districts should intensify preventive measures. Follow-up review meetings should be held and necessary action should be taken. The Minister also directed to strenghthen the vaccination.

The directive was given by the minister at a high-level meeting convened to assess the Covid situation in the state. A scary situation does not exist now. Currently no cluster is formed. Today, 255 Covid cases were reported in the state. 325 people were cured. A total of 1812 people are in treatment. Covid cases will remain like this in the state for a while. The minister also directed the people to remain vigilant even if a big wave is not in sight.

Awareness needs to be strengthened at the state and district levels. Wearing a mask is mandatory. Closed areas can spread the disease. Precautionary doses should be encouraged as Covid may increase among the elder people. Vaccination should reach as many people as possible. Vaccination of children will be strengthened in consultation with the Department of Education.

There are complaints that some private labs and private hospitals are overcharging for testing. The minister also said that testing at private labs would not be allowed at higher rates.