Covid 19 in Karnataka; Recent scenario and instant measures to suppress the pandemic

Abstract

In Karnataka, Covid caseload has crossed one lakh mark on 27 th July 2020. July month witnessed a new record, adding at least 85 percent of all cases in the state since March 9, 2020. The Covid infection is rising at faster rate. The major reasons for rising this infection are; very lenient/absurd quarantine policy, slow rate of testing in the initial phase and poor health infrastructure and manpower under public health facilities. This status of public health facility is a inherent problem does exist before Covid 19 enters the state. The entry of this pandemic potential virus has made the system still to suffer. The poor anticipation and insufficient preparedness for Covid 19 added to already the burning fury. Lack of people cooperation also equally true. Now almost lock down is unlocked, therefore the suppressing the virus should be with an immediate extra measures. The state cannot continue lockdown for a long period as financial crisis already set in. Preparing for this pandemic does not mean we have to sideline non covid health needs. The immediate steps should be that, certain proportion of beds shall be reserved at all level of health facilities to treat the Covid and non covid patients also. The major key to suppress the virus will be, effective tracing, increasing the testing, isolating the needy and efficient treatment. The government should enhance the capacity building of our health system in terms of Covid specific infrastructure as well as manpower without delay. Mass rapid testing should be initiated especially in urban wards and ward wise Covid Care Centers (CCC) shall be established on priority base. Private hospitals shall ensure their social responsibility and ethics.