Afaq Bhat
Srinagar, Oct 12: As the number of COVID-19 cases in Jammu and Kashmir has started to decline the experts have warned that another wave of the virus in winter could be more deadly and people should not become complacent.
A medico while talking to Precious Kashmir said, “During the past few days the number of COVID cases in the Valley are decreasing, rush in the hospitals has also gone down. It appears that worst is over but life cannot return to normal till a vaccine comes and a proper cure is found.”
He said that the number of COVID-19 cases going down could be a temporary relief as the winter is approaching fast and “we have no idea about how the virus will behave during the cold season.”
According to the media reports that trials of COVID vaccines are in the final stages across the globe and by the year end many countries would have come up with the vaccines, which would act as a protective shield against the deadly virus. “We are hoping that vaccines come before the winters become harsh but we are aware of the fact that next two months are crucial as the temperature will fall. We can’t do anything except waiting and watching,” the medico added.
He said that wearing masks is very important during the winter season. “The two things which will protect the people are masks and mufflers. Another factor which people will have to bear in mind is importance of social distancing. This cannot be overlooked as maintaining distance and avoiding gatherings are the keys to keep the virus at bay,” the medico opined.
It’s in place to mention here that the government has almost lifted the restrictions and lockdown phase is over. Only educational institutions are closed and these will be reopened after October 31.
An analyst said, “The government also is hoping that the vaccines come by the year end. The arrival of COVID vaccines would mean end of the pandemic and fear will disappear permanently.”
He said, “As far as Kashmir is concerned, the approaching winters are a big challenge and authorities will have to remain alert. If the virus wave turns deadly in winter it can have far reaching consequences. During winter everyone catches cough and cold. There is every possibility about the COVID cases increasing as soon as the temperature starts falling. The government will have to keep COVID testing kits available in large numbers so that people don’t get confused with the common cold and COVID-19.”
Kashmir: ‘COVID-19 wave in winter could be deadly, don’t be complacent’
