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Puducherry increases testing amid a rise in Covid-19 cases

Puducherry is experiencing a surge in COVID-19 cases, with 22 reported since the beginning of the month, marking a significant increase compared to previous sporadic instances. Health authorities are expressing concern as the recent uptick in cases has led to heightened vigilance. Director of Health and Family Welfare Services Dr G Sriramulu revealed that, in the past few days, there were two reported cases, followed by five positive cases, with two patients currently hospitalized—one at JIPMER and another at Chest Diseases Hospital at Gorimedu. The rest of the cases are under home isolation, exhibiting symptoms like mild fever, respiratory infections, and body aches.

The surge in cases is partly attributed to people traveling and returning from Sabarimala in Kerala, a region grappling with several COVID-19 cases. In response to the situation, testing efforts in Puducherry have been intensified, with daily tests reaching 150 to 200, a notable increase from the previous 70 to 80 tests per day. Dr Sriramulu emphasized the need for expanded testing capacity to effectively address the rising cases. Regarding the specific strain responsible for the surge, he mentioned that it is yet to be identified, and samples are being sent for genome sequencing to determine the nature of the virus.

Public Works Department Minister K Lakshminarayanan assured that Puducherry is prepared with adequate beds and infrastructure to accommodate patients requiring hospitalization. Lakshminarayanan participated in a meeting chaired by Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, where strategies for dealing with the increasing COVID-19 cases were discussed with state health ministers and officials.

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