Bengaluru: 

Karnataka Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao visited KC General Hospital in Malleswaram to assess preparedness. "I personally verified the availability and quality of oxygen cylinders, emergency ICU beds, ventilators, masks, and other COVID-related equipment," he said, adding that a dedicated COVID helpline will soon be launched for public assistance.

Karnataka Medical Education Minister Dr. Sharan Prakash Patil echoed the government's assurance. "There is no need for undue panic. The government is fully prepared. We request the public to cooperate by following health guidelines," he said. He emphasised that only individuals with fever, cold, or cough need to wear masks. “We're also witnessing a surge in seasonal illnesses due to heavy rains and fluctuating weather," he added.

Amid a gradual uptick in COVID-19 cases across Karnataka, the state government has stepped up precautionary measures, with Bengaluru reporting the highest number of infections. While officials maintain that the situation remains under control, health authorities have reactivated emergency protocols in key hospitals and advised the public — especially vulnerable groups — to exercise caution.

Testing will be mandatory for those with respiratory and cardiac conditions. All Severe Acute Respiratory Infection (SARI) cases are to be tested. Around 5,000 RT-PCR kits have been distributed statewide, and orders have been placed for Remdesivir injections as a precaution.

“We have reactivated the 'H' Block, which had been prepared during the earlier COVID waves, with beds, oxygen cylinders, ventilators, and sanitisers ready for emergencies," he said. “We are fully equipped to handle any surge.” It is to be noted that, as per the Department of Health and Family Welfare, there are around 100 active COVID-19 cases in the state, with a total of around 400 RT-PCR tests.

With schools reopening post-summer break, the education and health departments have issued joint advisories. Children displaying cold or flu-like symptoms should stay home. If symptoms develop during school hours, schools are advised to send affected students home immediately. Pregnant women and elderly citizens are encouraged to wear masks in crowded areas.

Guidelines for schools include provisions for granting leave to symptomatic children. Parents have been urged not to send sick children to school and to ensure they receive proper care at home.

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, after reviewing the situation, confirmed that the current infections are linked to the Omicron JN.1 variant, which presents mild symptoms. "Precaution, not panic, is the key," he advised.

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