Covid-19 may peak in Karnataka by early May and slow down by month-end

Speaking to the media on Sunday after a meeting with the Technical Advisory Committee, the Minister cautioned that “we must be vigilant till the end of May. If there is a surge in cases, our health infrastructure will be overburdened.” He said the TAC has suggested more vigilance at the inter-state borders and thorough testing of incoming travellers from high caseload states. The TAC has been directed to come up with a report, which will be submitted to the Chief Minister. Further measures will be taken after discussions with the CM.

“Private hospitals have extended their support to the government. We were among the first in the country to start tele-ICU, and private hospitals have also utilised it. We need to further strengthen this system. Suggestions which impact economic activities will not be considered. However, experts have suggested that we must curb large gatherings and crowds that spread infection,” Dr Sudhakar said.

‘Women are role models’

The state has received 72 lakh doses of vaccine, and so far about 61 lakh doses have been administered, of which 53% have gone to women. Women have emerged as role models when it comes to participation in the vaccination drive, he said.

Referring to the ‘Tika Utsav’ call of Prime Minister Narendra Modi from April 11 to 14 to mark the birth anniversaries of Mahatma Jyotirao Phule and Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar, Dr Sudhakar said the former dedicated his entire life for empowerment of women and the downtrodden through education and social transformation, while Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar was the architect of our Constitution and a crusader for social justice. “We must not allow politics, religion, caste or language into this vaccination drive. Therefore, we have administered vaccines to women belonging to different faiths today as a symbolic gesture,” he said.

PM lauds Karnataka

The Minister pointed out that the PM had spoken to the CM and had appreciated Karnataka’s efforts to contain the second wave. The PM had suggested focusing on micro- containment zones, “and we will take measures towards that,” said Dr Sudhakar

“I will continue to make surprise visits to hospitals and vaccination centres. Irregularities and improper facilities won’t be tolerated. If people are aware and co-operate, there is no need for a lockdown or curbs on economic activities,” he added.