COVID-19 is making a silent comeback in India. Having affected nations such as China and Thailand, the virus has now been reported in 12 Indian states. Cases are rising quickly in states including Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Maharashtra. Bihar’s capital city of Patna, however, hasn’t begun testing yet. Health authorities are holding out for a clear directive from top authorities before undertaking any screenings.
Spreads Outbreak, But No Patna Tests
The director of Patna’s top medical research center, Dr. Krishna Pandey, assured that they are not currently conducting RTPCR tests for COVID-19 due to the lack of official orders. Meanwhile, Dr. Avinash Singh, Civil Surgeon of Patna, is of the opinion that most residents have already developed immunity either via vaccination or previous infections. So, there’s no need to panic or undergo tests—though once instructed properly, the necessary measures will be taken accordingly.
Heavy Volume of Travel from Infected States Causes Alarm
Every day, dozens of tourists travel to Patna from states like Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, Delhi, and Gujarat that have experienced COVID-19 cases. This traffic of travellers may unwittingly transport the virus into society, mostly impacting individuals with compromised immunity. In Mumbai, two individuals—a teenage girl included—are suspected to have been killed by the virus. The government, however, has not officially declared those as COVID fatalities. The government has already issued advisory notifications on the new JN-1 variant, but the surveillance team of Bihar still cannot freely talk of it.
WHO classifies JN-1 as a Variant of Interest
Among the newly discovered Omicron lineals is strain JN-1. Its subtypes, such as LF-7 and NB1.8, are said to be responsible for quick infection rates in a few foreign countries. The World Health Organization (WHO) has labeled JN-1 as a “Variant of Interest,” i.e., it’s under close observation but doesn’t currently pose any threat. India’s highest health authorities are likely to issue more specific guidelines soon.
Monitor for Symptoms and Remain Guarded
The JN-1 symptoms follow all those of earlier strains: fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, fatigue, loss of appetite, diarrhea, or bellyache. Some persons could have runny noses, nausea, burning eyes, loss of smell or taste, or sore throats. People with diabetes, thyroid disease, heart disease, pregnant women, and people who postponed the completion of vaccination should be even more cautious. Masks, clean hands, evading crowds, and physical distancing are still essential safety practices.