Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi (JD)

Udupi, Dec 20: "Two cases of Omicron variant have been detected in the district. A woman aged 73 and an 82-year-old male are the patients. But, as both had completed their vaccination, they are out of danger without any severe health complications." said deputy commissioner (DC) M Kurma Rao.

Addressing the media about the new variant cases found in the district on Monday December 20, he said, “There is nothing to worry about the Omicron variant. Public should follow the Covid appropriate behaviour more strictly. The two elderly people were tested as they were primary contacts of a family. They were detected to have the Omicron variant. We have tested 2,700 samples in the locality in which one positive case has been identified. Both the patients were healthy and asymptomatic. As they were fully vaccinated there were no health complications.

"The positivity rate in the district for the past 7 days is 0.1%. Testing is also being done intensively. We have instructed the local bodies to strictly enforce fines for not wearing masks. We are targeting to complete 90% of second dose by December end. As many as 168 samples have been sent for variant identification test. Thirty-three results have been received in which two had Omicron variant. Vaccination process is also been fast-tracked.”

Answering about the media’s question on norms during Christmas and New Year celebrations, he said, "As per the latest guidelines by the government, 500 persons are allowed to attend any function. The same will be continued until a new order is issued by the state government.”

ADC Balakrishna, zilla panchayat CEO Dr Naveen Bhat, district health oficer Dr Nagabhushan Udupa, and Covid nodal officer Dr Prashanth Bhat were present.