Representational Image. (IANS Photo)
States told to gear up oxygen supply, isolation beds as active cases cross 4,300
DIMAPUR, JUNE 6 (MExN): Amid a recent uptick in COVID-19 cases across the country, the Union Health Ministry has held a series of high-level review meetings to assess the situation and reinforce public health preparedness among States and Union Territories.
The technical review meetings, held on June 2 and 3, were chaired by Dr. Sunita Sharma, Director General of Health Services (DGHS), and included key representatives from the Disaster Management Cell, Emergency Management Response (EMR) Cell, National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP), and central government hospitals in Delhi.
According to official data presented during the meetings, India recorded 4,302 active COVID-19 cases as of June 4, with 864 new cases reported in the last 24 hours. Most of the cases are mild and being managed under home isolation. Since January 1, a total of 44 COVID-related deaths have been reported, primarily among patients with pre-existing medical conditions.
The Ministry stressed the need for States to ensure adequate availability of oxygen, isolation beds, ventilators, and essential medicines. A nationwide mock drill to assess oxygen infrastructure—covering PSA plants, LMO tanks, and medical gas pipeline systems—was conducted on June 2.
Surveillance mechanisms have also been intensified. State and district-level IDSP units are closely monitoring cases of Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) and Severe Acute Respiratory Illness (SARI). All hospitalized SARI cases and 5% of ILI cases are to be tested as per existing protocols. Samples from SARI patients testing positive for COVID-19 are being sent for whole genome sequencing through the ICMR’s VRDL network to track emerging variants.
The Ministry has issued a public advisory urging citizens to maintain hand hygiene, follow cough etiquette, and avoid crowded places if symptomatic. Individuals showing signs of acute respiratory illness are advised to self-monitor and seek timely medical attention if symptoms escalate.
To combat misinformation, the Health Ministry has advised the public to rely on official sources such as the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare website and updates from the Press Information Bureau.
