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Covid-19 cases likely to see decrease in Karnataka by next week, says Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao

He directed officials to make Covid-19 tests mandatory for those with Influenza Like Illness (ILI) or Severe Acute Respiratory Illness (SARI).

BySouth First Desk

Published Jan 05, 2024 | 8:59 PM ⚊UpdatedJan 05, 2024 | 8:59 PM

Karnataka Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao with health officials. (X)

With active cases increasing in Karnataka, state Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao, on Friday, 5 January, directed officials to make Covid tests mandatory for those with Influenza Like Illness (ILI) or Severe Acute Respiratory Illness (SARI).

Earlier, only one in 20 of these cases were being subjected to Covid-19 testing, however, now, private and government hospitals have been instructed to conduct the test on all ILI/SARI patients.

Karnataka cases to decline by next week?

The positivity rate in the state has not come down yet, the Health Minister said, while interacting with the media.

“More than 7,000 tests are being done every day and the Covid positivity rate in the state is 3.82 percent,” Gundu Rao said after a review meeting with officials.

Held a meeting today with the Senior Health Officials at Vikas Soudha to review Covid control measures. We have increased the testing to over 7000 tests every day and are keeping a close watch on the positivity rate. I have instructed to take special care of those under home… pic.twitter.com/Bfk34uKs2C

— Dinesh Gundu Rao/ದಿನೇಶ್ ಗುಂಡೂರಾವ್ (@dineshgrao) January 5, 2024

Stating that neighbouring Kerala has started seeing a downward trend in Covid-19 cases, the Minister said that he has asked officials to keep a close watch on those who are Covid positive.

“Those with symptoms are being monitored and tested. Those who are in isolation at home have been told to take extra care,” he said.

However, Gundu Rao said that experts, during the Technical Advisory Committee meet on Thursday, are expecting to see a decrease in the number of Covid-19 cases starting next week in Karnataka. They have issued a set of instructions. “I have instructed the authorities to implement the guidelines,” Gundu Rao said.