No need to panic over JN.1 Covid variant: Siddaramaiah

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Thursday said that there was no need for people to panic over JN.1 Covid variant but urged people to exercise caution.

Speaking at a press briefing, following a high-level meeting on Covid preparedness, Siddaramaiah said that he directed officials not to repeat the mistakes of the previous government.

There should be no shortage of resources like oxygen, beds, ventilators, and medication, Siddaramaiah said and mentioned that the new Covid variant JN.1 is not dangerous. Of the 92 cases detected in the state, 80 were from Bengaluru and only 20 persons required hospitalization. Among these, 7 are in ICU due to pre-existing health issues. The rest are recovering at home.

The government is conducting 5000 tests on a daily basis. A Cabinet Sub-Committee will be constituted, who will be in touch with the Advisory Committee for constant monitoring of the situation. Recommendations by the Technical Advisory Committee must be fully implemented. Vigilance will be increased in border districts, he said.

The chief minister further stressed that individuals above 60 years of age should compulsorily wear masks, especially in public places. Presently wearing masks has not been made mandatory for those below 60, however, it is advisable to wear masks in crowded areas. Dedicated hospitals are fully equipped. Measures have been taken to ensure adequate resources like oxygen and ventilators at district hospitals. Vaccine preparations are underway, he said.

There is no shortage of funds to manage the Covid situation, siddaramaiah said and added that reserve hospitals will be organized based on the situation.