Bengaluru: Corona likely to increase by end of Feb, lockdown inevitable if negligent - Ashok

Bengaluru, Jan 3: Coronavirus infection is increasing in the state in the midst of Omicron variant scare. The possibilities of the infections increasing to alarming levels towards the end of February are high. A week ago, daily detection of new cases was at 100 to 150. However, now 1000 cases are reported every day. It is said that this is the indication of third wave onset. Experts say that caution is the key for all age groups. Revenue minister R Ashok said that lockdown is inevitable if people are negligent. The Health department is also getting ready to face the situation. At present the facilities at government hospital and medical college hospitals is increased by three fold. Though Omicron is mild in nature, it spreads fast. Experts say that if 50,000 to 60,000 people are affected at one time throughout the state on daily basis, it will put extreme load on healthcare system. The state Covid committee suggested that if the positivity rate increases beyond 5% and the beds in ICU and oxygen are occupied to 40%, then lock down might be inevitable. In the midst of the increasing scare of Omicron and possibility of lockdown, Chief minister (CM) Basavaraj Bommai said that lockdown is not necessary if public gives support. Decision will be taken on Monday or Tuesday whether to implement strict preventive measures like Mumbai. CM Bommai said that like Mumbai, the cases of coronavirus are increasing rapidly in Bengaluru. Minister Ashok has spoken about the possibility of lockdown. Our stand is very clear. Earlier lockdown was implemented. Now to avoid that we have taken strict action. “Extra caution is being taken at Maharashtra-Karnataka border. Those who arrive in Karnataka have to have carry reports of two doses of vaccination and RTPCR negative report,” said the CM. Bommai said, “Not only restrictions but we need to do preparations also to face the situation. Last time we faced oxygen shortage. Instructions are given to produce oxygen at taluk and district level. We have decided to increase the ICU beds by more than 4,000.” (Source: Daijiworld)