PANAJI
As the Central government asks States to maintain constant vigil in view of detection of the first JN.1 variant in Kerala and sudden spike in Covid-19 cases, the health authorities in Goa will hold a crucial meeting on Wednesday to review the preparedness of health facilities and services in view of an upsurge.
Sources informed that the health director will chair the meeting before briefing the Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, who will hold a review meeting virtually on Wednesday with the health ministers and secretaries of all States and Union Territories and officials concerned.
“During our internal meeting we will prepare a detailed report on the State preparedness in view of sudden rise in respiratory illness cases including those of Covid-19 in some States. The report will then be placed before the State Health Minister Vishwajit Rane, who will then brief the Union Minister,” sources said.
Earlier this month, the first case in India of the new Covid variant called JN.1 was reported in Kerala. The country has so far recorded five deaths due to Covid. Goa has around 20 active Covid-19 cases.
Sources said that with the upcoming festive and tourism season, the State government will ensure that COVID-19 protocols are followed and all the facilities and health measures are put in place in order to minimise the risk, if any.
