RTPCR Lab Testing Reopens in Devanahalli as Karnataka Reports 36 New Cases

In response to the recent spike in Covid-19 cases in Karnataka, the Health Department has stepped up precautionary measures in Bengaluru Rural district. The RTPCR laboratory at the government hospital in Devanahalli, originally established during the second wave of the pandemic, was reopened on Tuesday. Officials inspected the lab's testing equipment to ensure it is fully functional.

The facility will now handle sample collection and testing for four taluks in Bengaluru Rural district, including areas around Kempegowda International Airport. Bengaluru Rural District Health Officer (DHO) Krishna Reddy visited the lab to assess its preparedness.

The district administration is closely monitoring the outskirts of Bengaluru city, particularly around the airport, to prevent a potential surge in Covid-19 cases. Currently, two active cases have been reported in the district, one of which involves a pilot.

The District Collector has directed the Health Department to intensify surveillance, proactively collect samples, and advise the public to wear masks in crowded or public places.

Karnataka reported 36 new Covid-19 cases on Tuesday, pushing the number of active infections in the state to 100, according to a bulletin from the state health department.

With Covid-19 cases rising across India, the district administration is prepared to deploy additional health personnel at the airport and resume testing operations if instructed by the central or state governments.