Two Covid deaths in Kerala, active cases double to 182 in 2 days - What health ministry says

Covid

Kerala has seen a fresh rise in Covid cases, with 182 infections reported and two Covid-related deaths in May. This has raised the total number of deaths from the virus in Kerala to 72,141 since the pandemic began in 2020.

According to a report by The New Indian Express, the active cases have doubled in just two days, reaching 182 by May 21. However, health officials have assured that the current situation is not alarming.

The highest number of new cases has been reported from Kottayam (57), followed by Ernakulam (34) and Thiruvananthapuram (30). The remaining cases are spread across other districts.

The two victims, men aged 59 and 64, died at a private hospital in Thiruvananthapuram. The 59-year-old, a resident of Thalavur in Kollam, was admitted with respiratory issues on May 19 and passed away the following day. The second victim, a native of Vazhayila in Thiruvananthapuram, died on May 16, The New Indian Express reported.

In response to the rising cases, state health minister Veena George addressed the media and highlighted the situation in countries like Hong Kong and Singapore, where newer Omicron sub-variants such as JN.1, LF.7, and NB.1.8 are causing a spike in infections. She warned that while Kerala may also see an increase in cases, the symptoms so far appear to be mild. “Self-care and early caution are very important,” she said.

A high-level meeting of the State Rapid Response Team (RRT) was held under Minister George’s leadership. Following the meeting, the government decided to increase Covid testing for those showing symptoms. Hospitals have been asked to stock up on RT-PCR kits and ensure the availability of safety gear. Wearing masks has been made mandatory in hospitals, especially for healthcare workers.

The minister also gave specific advice to the public: “Those with symptoms such as cold, sore throat, cough, and shortness of breath must wear masks. It is advisable for the elderly, pregnant women and those with serious illnesses to wear masks in public places and while traveling,” Indian Express quoted her as saying.

“Unnecessary hospital visits should be avoided. It is better to wash hands with soap occasionally. Wherever you are treated, you should follow the protocol and ensure treatment in that hospital. The minister also clarified that it is not right to refer to some private hospitals when it is found that they are Covid-19,” she added.

While the current Covid variants have shown high transmissibility, Minister George reassured the public that “the severity is not high”. Still, she emphasised precaution, early testing, and mask usage as key steps to preventing a larger outbreak.