Daijiworld Media Network – Bengaluru (MS)

Bengaluru, Oct 26: Though new cases of Covid infection are decreasing in the state, the Omicron BQ.1 new variant has been found in America, while XBB variant is detected in Maharashtra. In the wake of this, the health department has sounded an alert in Karnataka.

A new XXB variant has been found in Maharashtra, which is an offshoot of BA 2.75 and BJ.1. Already caution has been sounded in Maharashtra. It is learnt that the infection will spread in the same manner as Covid from these two variants. So the health department has asked people to follow precautions during Deepavali.

In its communique, the health department said, “Public should go to local hospitals if any symptoms of fever, cough, cold, throat pain or breathing related issue is noticed and get themselves tested for RAT and RTPCR. They should voluntarily stay inside the house till the infection subsides. It is better if the face masks are used in public areas and maintain distance during festival days. Those who have taken two doses of vaccines, should take the booster dose. Those who are above 60 should take more precautions, it has said.

“Distance should be kept from people who have symptoms of Covid. Public should also use green crackers during Deepavali and contribute to saving nature,” a media release said.

Meanwhile, the Covid infection rate has reduced in the state. On Tuesday, 78 new cases were detected but no deaths occurred. In Bengaluru, 56 cases were reported while in other districts, a negligible number of cases were detected. On Tuesday, 263 people were discharged. There are still 2142 active Covid cases in the state as per the bulletin released by the health department.