Global concerns mount as newer variants of Coronavirus emerge: Centre convenes critical meeting

Amidst the global emergence of new coronavirus variants, the Indian Centre convened a crucial meeting, urging states to enhance testing through whole genome sequencing. Dr P K Mishra, Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister, emphasized vigilance over global variants and trends in influenza-like illness and severe acute respiratory infection cases. While India’s COVID-19 situation remains stable and its health systems prepared, the need to monitor these cases was stressed.

Health Secretary Sudhansh Pant presented a snapshot of the worldwide COVID-19 scenario, highlighting newer variants like BA.2.86 (Pirola) and EG.5 (Eris). Despite India contributing almost 17% of the global population, the nation reported a mere 223 cases out of 2,96,219 new global cases in the past week. The meeting underscored India’s favorable testing rates, with a weekly test positivity rate below 0.2%.

With daily new cases averaging below 50 across the country, India’s success in curbing infections was acknowledged. The meeting also provided insights into the genome sequencing of different virus variants circulating within India. The high-level review, attended by key officials including Dr Vinod Paul, Rajiv Gauba, and DG Rajiv Bahl, delved into the global and national COVID-19 situation and the impact of new variants on public health.

The Centre’s meeting addressed the importance of monitoring new COVID-19 variants globally. While India’s situation remains stable, constant vigilance and testing remain necessary to mitigate the potential impact of emerging variants. The nation’s effective measures in controlling the virus were highlighted, with officials providing valuable insights into its ongoing efforts.

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