Daijiworld Media Network – Bengaluru
Bengaluru, May 24: As concerns mount over a possible resurgence of the COVID-19 pandemic, Bengaluru has reported its first coronavirus-related fatality in recent times, even as the number of confirmed cases across Karnataka has risen to 38. Of these, a staggering 32 cases have been reported from Bengaluru alone, according to State Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao.
In a press briefing held on Saturday, Minister Rao urged citizens to remain calm and not to panic, assuring that the state health department is taking all necessary precautionary steps. “There is no cause for fear,” he stated. “We have issued guidelines and are closely monitoring the situation.”
Testing resumes in key hospitals
In response to the uptick in cases, the government has decided to resume COVID-19 testing in select hospitals. Testing will now be carried out in district hospitals and medical college hospitals. Additionally, eight RT-PCR labs that were previously inactive will be reopened from May 25.
Health Minister Rao confirmed that testing will be mandatory for patients with Severe Acute Respiratory Infection (SARI) and other respiratory issues. “Pregnant and breastfeeding women have been advised to wear masks in crowded places,” he added. However, he clarified that there is no blanket mandate for mask usage or travel restrictions at this point.
Preparedness and nationwide context
Karnataka is not alone in witnessing a rise in cases. Nationwide, 257 new COVID-19 cases have been recorded, though health officials note that symptoms remain mild in the majority of these patients.
“We are in continuous touch with the Central Government and have held discussions with the COVID Technical Committee,” Rao said, stressing that all decisions are precautionary in nature and aimed at safeguarding public health.
The minister also appealed to the media to act responsibly and avoid spreading panic. “Media should focus on creating awareness and not fear,” he emphasized.
While urging citizens to maintain personal hygiene and use sanitisers, the minister reiterated that testing kits will be kept on standby for at least one month and used as per requirement.
With surveillance intensifying and health authorities on alert, the state government remains confident that the situation is under control. Citizens have been encouraged to continue with their routine lives, albeit with recommended precautions.