New Delhi, Mar 12: As the cases of seasonal influenza H3N2 are on rise across the country, the union health ministry has expressed its concern over gradual increase in COVID-19 positivity rate.
The Centre has requested the states and union territories to follow the guidelines for the surveillance of influenza-like illness (ILI) or severe acute respiratory infection (SARI) cases.
“While the COVID-19 trajectory has decreased substantially in last few months, the gradual rise in COVID-19 test positivity rates in some states is a concerning issue that needs to be promptly addressed,” said Union Health Secretary Rajesh Bhushan.
Despite low number of new cases, equally low number of hospitalisations and significant advances made in terms of COVID-19 vaccination coverage, Bhushan said, there is a need to remain vigilant and focus on the five-fold strategy of test, track, treat, vaccination and adherence to Covid-appropriate behaviour.
Due to the lack of personal hygiene, coughing without adequate protection, closed indoor gatherings of people, etc. seasonal influenza has spread rapidly recording several cases and a couple of deaths have also been reported in the country.
