X: @the_news_21
The Union Health Ministry has initiated a comprehensive review of preparedness measures following the emergence of a concerning public health situation in China, where respiratory illnesses are on the uptick. In response, the Indian Government has issued stringent guidelines to all State Governments and Union Territories, mandating the implementation of the ‘Operational Guidelines for Revised Surveillance Strategy in the context of COVID-19’.
Authorities stress the imperative monitoring of Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) and Severe Acute Respiratory Infections (SARI) trends at district and state levels. The surge in respiratory ailments has been attributed primarily to common causes such as Influenza, Mycoplasma pneumonia, and SARS-CoV-2.
Assuring the public, the Health Ministry has conveyed that the situation remains under control and emphasized there is no cause for panic or alarm. This reassurance comes as Kerala Health Minister Veena George highlighted the state’s heightened vigilance. Kerala, having grappled significantly with the COVID-19 pandemic previously, remains on high alert as health officials monitor the situation closely.
Veena George, addressing concerns, referenced the World Health Organization’s recent dialogue with China regarding pneumonia cases observed in children. China reportedly provided clarifications indicating no cause for alarm. Kerala’s expert committee convened to analyze the situation promptly, with the Health Minister chairing a meeting involving experts from various medical bodies.
Despite the vigilance and proactive measures, the Health Ministry continues to advocate for vigilance and adherence to health protocols while reaffirming that the situation is being closely monitored with an abundance of caution.
