Number of Covid cases in Tripura is increasing. Fresh 32 cases were detected in the State as per the report of Saturday morning (July 9). Total number of covid positive cases is increased to 72 today.
However, the Health Department of the State is apparently yet to take any step to arrest the spike in Covid.
Satisfied that Covid threat has faded away, people in large numbers are taking part in religious festival and other socio-political programs.
There is no social distancing in public places, no one bothers to wear mask or use sanitizers – as if Covid has gone forever.
The 9-day long Rath Yatra came to an end today on July 9. Devotees irrespective of age assembled and jostled around without bothering about Covid.
Meantime, week-long traditional Kharchi puja started on July 7 last and the situation is same as far as gross violation of Covid norms are concerned.
On July 10, Bakri Eid will be observed in the State and once again, massive gatherings at places are on the cards.
More religious festivals are coming up and add political programs with this, no doubt situation demands immediate steps, one of the veteran journalist commented.
While irresponsible attitude of people is a concern, the role of the Health Department has raised many an eyebrow.
Even after prevalence of Covid started to be noticed, there is no directives for the public from the Health Department, so far.
The more worrying factor is low rate of testing. As per the July 9 morning report, total 531 samples were tested and 32 were found Covid positive – the positivity rate stands at 6.03 per cent whereas total positivity rate is 4.05 per cent.
Informed sources opined many people are suffering from cough, cold and fever – but most of them are avoiding tests for Covid, instead they are opting for self medication or relying on suggestions of med shop keepers.
Importantly, they are roaming around freely without wearing masks etc. Even if a small per cent of such people is carrying coronavirus, they are posing a great threat.
With the Covid is recurring in other parts of country, the threat of Covid spike is looming large.
Unfortunately, neither the people nor the Health Department officials are noticing the imminent danger.
It is pertinent that the Health Department along with Civil and Police administration comes up with a comprehensive combat plan without any further delay.
Several medical personnel opined in condition of anonymity, the Health Department must issue directive to use mask in public places as well strictly implement social distancing.
Besides, it important to restrict mass gathering – no matter whether it is religious programs or political.
The Health Department needs to ensure more testing to minimise the chance of spreading the disease.
With Assembly polls are knocking at the door, the Health Department must start taking actions without delay so that situation does not spin out of hand, medicos suggested.
