Srinagar: Resurgence of COVID-19 has once again led to the closure of schools and has brought the night curfew back.
Experts have predicted that the ongoing second wave of Covid would peak by the end of this month and next two weeks are very crucial. The government had to close down the schools after these institutions turned into COVID-19 hotspots. Many students and teachers tested positive in the schools following which these institutions were shut.
An observer said, “The imposition of night curfew in eight districts of Jammu and Kashmir is a step towards confining the movement of people 24×7. The COVID virus moves along with people. Restricting the movement for a few hours can help. Many countries that witnessed the second Covid wave did the same what the J&K Government has done. So there is nothing unusual about it.”
President of Doctors Association of Kashmir (DAK) and flu expert, Dr Nisar-ul-Hassan, said, “Given the pace of spread, it seems there is a mutant in circulation which is more infectious than the previous one. Opening up vaccination to young people quickly and thoroughly can prevent the mutant from gaining foothold.”
Another medico said, “The increase Covid cases signifies that the new variant has already infiltrated into Kashmir. We can’t remain in denial. Besides following the COVID sops, the vaccines can go a long way in fighting the virus.”
An official said, “At present people above 45-years of age are eligible for the COVID-19 jab. In coming days the inoculation process will be intensified. People are being made aware through different means about the importance of getting vaccinated. We are conducting surveys to ascertain how many people above 45 years have not taken the COVID-19 jabs. If the need arises getting vaccinated will be made mandatory.”
An expert said, “History stands testimony to the fact that the pandemics that broke out in the past were fought with vaccines which helped in developing herd immunity. Closing down schools, imposing night curfew are short term solutions. We cannot fight Covid by just remaining confined within four walls of our houses. For the past one year we have been playing hide and seek with the COVID-19. This game has to end. Life has to return to normal and for that masses have to get ready to fight the pestilence.”
He said, “We cannot hold the government responsible for resurgence of COVID-19. It’s a pandemic and it can be defeated through collective efforts. Blaming each other won’t help anyone’s cause.”
Can’t play hide and seek with Covid forever, say experts
