COVID Cases Rise in Karnataka, Govt Urges Caution as Schools Reopen

“COVID Situation Under Control, Government Urges Caution as Schools Reopen”

Bengaluru, 27 May: With a steady rise in COVID-19 cases across Karnataka, the state government has urged citizens to remain cautious, especially as schools prepare to reopen after summer vacation. However, health officials have assured the public that there is no reason to panic.

After a review meeting held at Vikas Soudha with directors of government medical colleges and hospitals, Dr. Sharan Prakash Patil, Minister for Medical Education and Raichur district in-charge, addressed the media. “COVID cases are increasing daily, but there is no need for undue worry,” he said. “The government is fully prepared. We request the public, especially pregnant women and elderly people, to use masks in crowded places. People should cooperate with us.”

The minister emphasized that students with symptoms such as fever, cold, or cough should not be sent to school. If such symptoms develop during school hours, the child should be sent home after informing their parents.

Testing facilities are in place across all four divisions of the state, and hospitals have been directed to test all SARI (Severe Acute Respiratory Infection) cases. “I’ve instructed officials to collect updated data on oxygen beds and ventilators. We are ensuring readiness in case of any surge,” Dr. Patil said.

While masks are not mandatory for the general public at this time, they are advised for those showing symptoms. “Health workers have been instructed to wear masks. Seasonal illnesses are also on the rise due to weather changes, so we are monitoring the situation closely,” he added.

Bengaluru is currently reporting the highest number of COVID cases in the state, but officials say the spread is not rapid. “Most people are vaccinated. If needed, we’ll coordinate with the Union Health Ministry for vaccine supplies,” the minister stated.

Also present at the meeting were Mohammed Moshin, Principal Secretary of Medical Education, and Dr. Sujatha Rathod BL, Director of Medical Education.

Statements:

1. Dr. Sharan Prakash Patil, Minister for Medical Education:
   “COVID cases are increasing, but there is no need for panic. The government is fully prepared and the public must cooperate, especially by following basic precautions like wearing masks when necessary.”

2. On Schools Reopening:
   “Children with symptoms such as fever, cold, or cough should not be sent to school. If symptoms appear during school hours, schools should inform parents and send the child home.”

3. On Testing and Infrastructure:
   “Testing for all Severe Acute Respiratory Infection (SARI) cases will continue. Labs have been set up across four divisions. Data on oxygen beds and ventilators is being updated to ensure readiness.”

4. On Mask Usage:
   “Masks are not mandatory for everyone at this point. However, people showing symptoms, as well as pregnant women and the elderly in crowded areas, are advised to wear masks.”

5. On Vaccine and Preparedness:
   “Most citizens are already vaccinated. If the situation demands, we will coordinate with the Union Health Ministry to procure additional vaccines.”

Q&A:

Q1: Is the COVID situation in Karnataka under control?
A: Yes. While cases are rising, the government has taken adequate steps. There is no need to panic.

Q2: Are masks mandatory for the public?
A: No, not for everyone. But those with fever, cold, or cough should wear masks. Health workers are required to wear them.

Q3: What is the government’s plan for testing and hospital preparedness?
A: All SARI cases will be tested. Labs are operational in four divisions. Data on oxygen beds and ventilators is being updated.

Q4: What precautions should parents take as schools reopen?
A: Children with any symptoms should stay home. Schools must inform parents and send symptomatic children home immediately.

Q5: Are there any restrictions or lockdown plans?
A: No restrictions or lockdowns are being planned. The situation is being closely monitored.

Q6: Is there a vaccine shortage?
A: No shortage currently. If needed, the state will coordinate with the central government for more vaccines.

Q7: Which area is seeing the highest number of new cases?
A: Bengaluru is currently reporting the highest number of new COVID cases in the state.