Bengaluru
Amid growing concerns over a potential resurgence of Covid-19 infections, the Karnataka Health Department has issued a renewed alert and implemented precautionary measures across the state. In an effort to strengthen surveillance and early detection, the department has set a daily testing target of 150 to 200 samples for all government health units.
The move comes in the backdrop of scattered reports of Covid-like symptoms among patients and the presence of SARI (Severe Acute Respiratory Infection) cases that may overlap with early-stage Covid infections. The department has directed that all SARI cases be compulsorily tested for Covid-19, and the samples must be promptly sent to authorized government laboratories.
A circular issued by the department outlines a series of precautionary measures to be followed strictly by healthcare institutions and primary health centres. It emphasizes early detection, focused testing of high-risk groups, and preparedness in diagnostic infrastructure.
Mandatory testing for vulnerable groups
As per the new directive, Covid-19 testing is now compulsory for:
• All patients presenting symptoms of SARI, such as breathlessness, persistent cough, and high fever.
• Senior citizens displaying symptoms suggestive of Covid-19.
• Pregnant women showing any signs of respiratory distress or viral fever.
A senior health official stated, “These categories are at high risk of complications from respiratory viruses. Timely testing will help us intervene early and potentially prevent outbreaks.”
State-wide infrastructure mobilized
While the number of confirmed Covid-19 cases in Karnataka remains low as of now, the Health Department is not taking any chances. Testing will be conducted at centers that are equipped with VRDL (Viral Research and Diagnostic Laboratory) facilities. These include prominent institutions such as:
• NIMHANS (National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences)
• Bangalore Medical College and Research Institute (BMCRI)
• National Institute of Virology (NIV) and
• Several other medical colleges and district hospitals across ten locations in the state.
The department has also instructed all concerned units to remain vigilant and ensure smooth coordination between local health centers and central labs. To prepare for increased testing, the department has authorized the procurement of 5,000 RT-PCR test kits, expected to meet the state's diagnostic requirements for the coming month.