Karnataka COVID Advisory: Schools Asked to Grant Leave for Students Experiencing Cold and Fever

Karnataka COVID Advisory: As part of ongoing efforts to curb the spread of COVID-19, the Karnataka government has issued a directive urging schools to grant leave to students exhibiting symptoms of cold and fever. Parents have also been advised not to send children to school if they show any flu-like symptoms, as a precautionary measure to safeguard public health.

This decision was announced following a high-level meeting convened by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah in Bengaluru on Monday to assess the current COVID-19 situation in the state amid a slight rise in new cases. The government's primary focus remains on preventing further transmission, especially among children in school environments.

Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao spoke to the media after the meeting, emphasizing that the state health department is fully prepared with COVID-19 guidelines and necessary infrastructure. While the situation is currently under control and not severe, he stressed the importance of vigilance and caution to keep the virus at bay.

The Chief Minister has instructed authorities to ensure that essential medical supplies such as ventilators, oxygen, and medicines are adequately stocked to handle any potential surge. Additionally, a COVID-19 helpline is set to be launched soon to assist the public with queries and support.

The government's technical advisory committee will meet weekly to review the evolving situation and provide timely recommendations. Elderly individuals, pregnant women, and those with pre-existing heart or lung conditions are advised to continue wearing masks as a preventive measure.

To enhance testing capabilities, Karnataka has procured 5,000 RT-PCR kits expected to be distributed to hospitals shortly, with coordination ongoing between state and central health authorities.

Bengaluru currently reports the highest number of active COVID-19 cases in the state, with 73 out of 80 active cases. The state's positivity rate in the last 24 hours stood at 19.37 per cent, the bulletin added.

The Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) is closely monitoring severe acute respiratory infection (SARI) cases in city hospitals, ensuring they undergo COVID-19 testing. BBMP officials note that while current cases appear mild and self-limiting, they await further guidance from the state government regarding isolation protocols.

With the government proactively managing resources and updating guidelines, the focus remains on protecting vulnerable groups and minimizing the risk of outbreaks in educational institutions and communities across Karnataka.