Bengaluru: In light of the recent increase in COVID-19 cases, the Karnataka government is intensifying precautionary measures, including focused testing, as stated by Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao on Sunday. He made these remarks while speaking to the media after the passing of an 84-year-old man who had tested positive for the virus and had several comorbidities.
“He had multiple health issues. Therefore, we have requested an audit. We cannot definitively state that he died solely due to COVID,” the minister explained, noting that the death likely occurred on May 17. The individual had been bedridden for a year, suffering from heart ailments, tuberculosis, and had previously undergone a hip replacement.
Current Situation Not Alarming, Monitoring Continues
Rao stressed that the present situation does not necessitate concern or restrictions. “Officials and experts are continuously monitoring, and any decisions regarding further measures, if required, will be made based on the circumstances, in consultation with the central government,” he stated.
He encouraged the public to remain calm and refrain from panic. “We should not incite unnecessary fear among the populace. Do you wish for a lockdown to be enforced? There is no question of any negligence,” he emphasized.
Testing Targeted at High-Risk Groups
The minister indicated that testing is being prioritized for high-risk groups, especially among the elderly and children exhibiting symptoms of Severe Acute Respiratory Infection (SARI) and Influenza-Like Illness (ILI).
“We have instructed our department officials to carry out tests. RT-PCR testing kits are expected to arrive at our centers by tomorrow or the following day,” Rao reported. “This is mandatory at both private and government hospitals.”
Testing will be monitored over the next four to five days. Weekly meetings of the state’s Technical Advisory Committee have been arranged to assess the changing situation.
COVID Cases in Karnataka
As of Saturday evening, Karnataka reported 38 active COVID-19 cases, with 32 of those in Bengaluru, according to the state health department.
