Covid advisory issue in city against new variants

The advisory states that those with fever, cough, cold, sore throat and breathing difficulty should get tested immediately and self-isolate themselves till the results are received

NT Correspondent

Bengaluru: In view of reports of newer sub-variants of Omicron BQ.1 (US variant) BA.2.3.20 apart from XBB, which is a recombinant of BA.2.75 and BJ.1 in Maharashtra and in the context of the ensuing festival season, Randeep, Commissioner, Health & Family Welfare Services has issued a health advisory.

The advisory states that those with fever, cough, cold, sore throat, breathing difficulty shall compulsorily get tested immediately at the nearest hospital/ health centres (preferably RAT, if negative then RT-PCR) and get self-isolated till the results are received.

It also states that people with breathing difficulties must seek urgent medical care, preferably in a hospital and use an N-95 face mask while indoors, in places with air-conditioning, poorly ventilated areas, closed places, crowded areas and in health facilities.

The advisory has asked people that as far as possible observe festivities outdoors, and avoid crowding indoors. Those who are due for booster/precautionary dose of vaccination would need to get vaccinated.

It is important that those who are aged 60 years and above, and with co-morbidities (particularly not naturally infected previously) should get vaccinated early. Those who are immune-deficient and immunosuppressed, on renal dialysis, taking anticancer drugs, etc are advised to get vaccinated on priority basis in consultation with their treating doctor.

Covid Appropriate Behaviour like coughing and sneezing into folded elbows, use of tissues/handkerchief, avoid blowing nose or spitting in public areas, regular hand wash with soap and water, avoiding close contact with symptomatics, etc., should be followed.