Covid Guidelines extended till 31st October by MHA

The central government has extended the Covid-19 containment measures in the country till 31^st October. The decision has been taken in view of spread of the virus in a few states and the disease which is still a public health challenge. Union Home Secretary Ajay Bhalla has sent a communication to Chief Secretaries of all states and union territories, cautioning that there is strong possibility that Covid-appropriate behaviour may not get adhered strictly during the upcoming festival leading to a surge in cases.

Key guidelines to officials by Union Home Secretary:

• Utmost vigil to be kept  during mass gatherings.
• Close monitoring of positive cases in hospitals, ICU beds occupancy rates etc.
• Strict measures to contain the spread of transmission.
• Identification of warning signs of potential surges early on and to take appropriate measures.
• Continued focus on the five-fold strategy – Test-Track-Treat-Vaccination and adherence to Covid-appropriate behaviour.
• State governments and UT administrations to continue with their vaccination programmes with a focus to accelerate vaccination of eligible age groups and prioritisation of the second dose to eligible beneficiaries.

Union Home Secretary has instructed Chief Secretaries of states and union territories to issue directions to the district and all other local authorities to take necessary measures as advised in the union health ministry advisory for prompt and effective management of Covid-19.