In a recent statement, Assam Health Minister Keshab Mahanta reassured the public about the current state of COVID-19 in the region, emphasizing that there is no cause for alarm. One notable highlight of his update was the absence of positive cases among individuals with no travel history, signaling a positive trend in the state’s battle against the virus.
Addressing concerns related to the new sub-variant JN.1, Minister Mahanta cited expert opinions that characterize it as a weak strain. He further allayed fears by highlighting that human bodies have developed immunity to combat this particular variant. This information serves to provide a sense of relief and confidence in the region’s ability to manage the evolving landscape of the pandemic.
Mahanta shared insights from a recent review of the COVID-19 situation conducted by the Union Health Minister, wherein states like Kerala were put on alert due to the detection of new cases. Despite this, Assam appears to be maintaining a positive trajectory, with no reported cases of the JN.1 sub-variant within its borders.
About State’s Preparedness:
The minister acknowledged a singular case of a person returning from Switzerland testing positive for COVID-19. However, he assured the public that the patient is undergoing treatment in home isolation, underlining the state’s readiness to respond effectively to such situations. Facilities, including isolation beds and medical personnel, are reportedly in place to handle any potential surge in cases.
In a noteworthy development, Mahanta revealed that COVID-19 tests are no longer mandatory in the state, signaling a shift in testing strategies. Instead, the focus will be on individuals exhibiting symptoms associated with the virus. This move aligns with evolving approaches to testing and reflects the confidence in the state’s ability to manage the situation effectively.
The minister concluded by emphasizing that, despite no new Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) being issued for the state, authorities are closely monitoring the situation. This proactive stance reflects a commitment to staying ahead of the curve and adapting strategies as needed to safeguard public health.
As Assam continues to navigate the complexities of the pandemic, the updates from Health Minister Keshab Mahanta provide a glimpse into the state’s preparedness, reassuring the public and instilling confidence in the measures taken to mitigate the impact of COVID-19.
