THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The state on Saturday reported a huge surge in Covid cases with 1801 fresh cases. Minister Veena George informed that the Covid cases are more in Ernakulam, Thiruvananthapuram and Kottayam districts. "Tests have been ramped up. Although admission cases are increasing slightly, only 0.8 percent of the total patients require oxygen beds and only 1.2 percent require ICU beds. Most of the results sent for genetic testing have been found to be Omicron. Mock drill will be conducted as per the instructions of the central government.", the minister said.

The Minister also stated that it is important to protect the elderly and bedridden patients from Covid. "Covid-19 deaths are mostly reported in people above 60 years of age and those with lifestyle diseases such as diabetes and hypertension. 85 percent of covid deaths have been reported in people above 60 years of age. The remaining 15 percent have other serious illnesses. 5 people who did not go out of their homes have died of covid. Therefore, special care should be given to bedridden patients and elderly people at home. It should be ensured that they are not affected by covid. Wear a mask to while going out.", the minister added.

If the elderly and people with other illness are at home, others who go out should take extra care. They should strictly follow the covid guidelines. They should also wear masks properly when going out. They should not come in close contact with such people without washing their hands with soap and water. It is better for everyone who goes in crowds to wear a mask. Wash your hands frequently with hand sanitizer or soap and water. People with lifestyle diseases like diabetes, hypertension, elderly, pregnant women and children should wear masks. If they have symptoms of covid disease, they should be tested. Masks are also mandatory in hospitals. Other safety measures should also be adopted.

All districts should continue to conduct proper Covid reviews. Keeping in view the increase in Covid patients, the hospital facilities should be increased according to the surge plan. Ensure availability of oxygen. A special meeting of private hospitals will be called. Those in care homes, bedridden patients and those in tribal areas should be specially monitored. Special care should also be taken by staff in places requiring special care such as care homes and nursing homes. They should wear N95 masks when dealing with such people. Make sure they don't get covid. Anyone with symptoms should be sure to get tested and treated.