People fight COVID-19 fear as cases, deaths increase   

Afaq Bhat
Srinagar, Sep 10: Jammu and Kashmir has recorded more than 1000 COVID-19 positive cases for the past six days and the tally of infected persons in the Union Territory is nearing 50,000 mark. Besides more and more people turning positive, the death toll is also increasing and is about to touch 850. The virus seems to be having a free run.
During the past few days Jammu too has recorded a rapid increase in the cases and it has pressed panic button in the region. People of Jammu are of the opinion that the Rapid Action Tests (RATs) being conducted by the administration have brought to fore the real picture and the worst fear of the experts that the virus has spread within the community has come true.
A medico while talking to Precious Kashmir said, “Now, the COVID-19 has become a part of our lives. Everyone seems to be aware of the fact that anyone can get infected and cured also. Fear is there but people have realized that they are helpless. The best possible way through which they can keep the virus away is by taking precautions. They have to wear masks, use sanitizers and maintain social distancing.”
The medico said, “Despite virus having a free run people seem to be least bothered. They can’t take COVID-19 so lightly. People should realize that the COVID-19 is not a common flu. It’s a viral infection which can kill a person. The vaccine only can help the people in J&K as by now it has been established beyond doubt that the virus has spread within the community.”
Recently, president of Doctors of Association of Kashmir Dr Nisar had said that Flu vaccine is crucial in COVID-19 times. “Getting a flu shot in times of COVID-19 crisis is more important than ever,” said Dr Nisar in a statement. “We would be facing a double whammy of flu and Covid this fall and winter. This could be one of the most complicated public health times with the two coming together,” he had warned.
“You can catch the flu and COVID-19 at the same time and that increases your risk of ending up in ICU or on a ventilator,” he added.
An expert said, “The warning which has been issued can make things difficult for the people in coming months. We have to keep our fingers crossed and wait for winters arrive. Let’s hope that by then vaccine arrives.”