COVID-19 Positivity Rate in Delhi Increases to 9.1% Due to Negligence, says Pulmonologist

Dr. NK Gupta, a pulmonologist at the Safdarjung Hospital, reported that the COVID-19 positivity rate in Delhi has surged to 9.1%. According to Dr. Gupta, this spike is primarily due to people’s negligence in following COVID-appropriate behavior, such as wearing masks and maintaining social distancing.

He urged people to adhere to these guidelines to prevent the further spread of the virus. Dr. Gupta further informed that the hospital is fully prepared to handle the situation, with more than 200 beds kept ready for COVID-19 patients.

Apart from the increase in COVID-19 cases, India is also witnessing a rise in H3N2 influenza cases, leading to more hospitalizations than other subtypes. The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has attributed this rise to the Influenza A subtype H3N2 virus, which causes symptoms like runny nose, persistent cough, and fever.

In response to the surge in COVID-19 cases, the Centre recently held a high-level meeting with states and Union territories to review preparedness for pandemic management and vaccination progress. Union Health Secretary Rajesh Bhushan chaired the meeting and urged states to ramp up testing and whole genome sequencing of positive samples. He also stressed the need to follow COVID-19-appropriate behavior and increase the administration of precautionary doses, particularly for vulnerable populations.

States and UTs were advised to undertake mock drills across all health facilities to ensure the operational readiness of hospital infrastructure, including oxygen cylinders, PSA plants, ventilators, logistics, and human resources. The health secretary also emphasized the importance of maintaining sufficient designated beds and health workers across states, enhancing community awareness regarding disease and vaccination, and regularly updating COVID-19 data.

Staff Reporter