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Andhra Pradesh issues COVID-19 advisory amid global resurgence fears

The health department has instructed all facilities to stock adequate PPE kits, triple-layer masks, and N95 respirators, and mandated 24/7 availability of COVID-19 testing across laboratories in Andhra Pradesh

South First Desk

Published May 22, 2025 | 7:29 PM ⚊ Updated May 22, 2025 | 7:29 PM

Andhra Pradesh issues COVID-19 advisory amid global resurgence fears

Andhra Pradesh issues COVID-19 advisory amid global resurgence fears

Synopsis: Amid global concerns over a COVID-19 resurgence, Andhra Pradesh’s Health Directorate issued an advisory on 22 May urging strict adherence to preventive measures. It emphasised mask use, hygiene, and avoiding gatherings, especially for high-risk groups. Health authorities have been directed to raise public awareness and enhance preparedness across hospitals to mitigate potential spread and ensure early response

As concerns rise over a potential resurgence of COVID-19 cases globally, the Directorate of Public Health and Family Welfare in Andhra Pradesh has issued a comprehensive public advisory urging heightened vigilance and strict adherence to preventive protocols.

Released on Thursday, 22 May, the advisory underscores the importance of COVID-appropriate behaviour, particularly in public spaces and among high-risk populations. 

Local health authorities have been instructed to intensify public awareness campaigns and bolster preparedness at health facilities.

Also Read: Kerala issues Covid-19 advisory

Key guidelines for the public

  1. Avoid mass gatherings: Citizens are advised to refrain from hosting or attending prayer meetings, social events, and public functions to minimize transmission risks.
  2. Strict enforcement at transport hubs: COVID protocols must be rigorously followed at railway stations, bus stands, and airports.
  3. Protect high-risk groups: Elderly individuals (above 60 years) and pregnant women are urged to stay indoors unless absolutely necessary.
  4. Reinforce hygiene practices: Frequent handwashing, covering coughs and sneezes, and avoiding face-touching remain vital.
  5. Wear masks in crowded places: Mask-wearing is especially important in crowded or poorly ventilated areas and for those in vulnerable categories.
  6. Get tested if symptomatic: Individuals with symptoms or recent international travel history should seek COVID-19 testing without delay.
  7. Recognise symptoms early: Common symptoms include fever, cough, fatigue, sore throat, loss of taste or smell, headache, body aches, congestion, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. Those experiencing these symptoms should visit a health facility for confirmation and care.
  8. Stay home if unwell: Anyone feeling sick should remain at home and avoid contact with others.

Health system preparedness

The state health department has directed all health facilities to maintain sufficient stocks of PPE kits, triple-layer masks, and N95 respirators. 

Laboratories across Andhra Pradesh must ensure round-the-clock availability of COVID testing services.

While Andhra Pradesh and Telangana currently have no reported active COVID cases, Kerala has recorded 182 cases in May, with the highest numbers from Kottayam (57), Ernakulam (34), and Thiruvananthapuram (30). 

The advisory aims to pre-empt a similar surge in Andhra Pradesh through early preventive action.

(Edited by Ananya Rao with inputs from Sumit Jha)

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