Direction given by Prime Minister in the light of emerging new COVID-19 virus variant (omicron)

A new variant of COVID-19 virus B.1.1.529 (omicron) is considered a ‘variant of concern’ by the World Health Organization. At Least 100 cases are found in South Africa, 4 cases in Botswana, two cases in Hong Kong, two in U.K, one in Belgium and one in Israel and one in Denmark respectively.

Several countries imposed travel restrictions to curb the spread of omicron.

On 27th November, 2021, Prime Minister Narendra Modi in a two hour long meeting with senior Union Government officials directed few plans.

International Travelling

He directed a review plan of international travel and monitored all international arrival and testing as per the guidelines.

In addition, he directed that all international travel and community are required to give genome sequencing samples which will be tested in the labs established under Indian SARS – COV 2 Genomics Consortium (INSACOG)

Vaccine

He also directed the officials to increase the coverage of the second close it COVID 19 vaccine and they’ll also review the vaccine situations along with Public health preparedness.

Medical facilities and Marketing

Mr. Modi also directed the officials to coordinate with states and make sure that every state is having stocks of various medicines, proper functioning of pressure swing absorption oxygen plants and ventilator. They are also directed to review the functioning of medical infrastructure and understand the warning signals.

Awareness

He also emphasized on awareness. He directed the office to work with the state and aware the people at state and district levels and make them aware of new variants and tell them to follow precautions.

In addition, technical support will be given to states having higher cases.