Given the number of fresh covid-19 infections in Kashmir, especially in Srinagar, the people seem to have concluded once again that the pandemic is all but over. Although the second wave may have waned, it is not over by any stretch of imagination as more and more cases are detected every day. On Sunday, 168 new covid-19 cases were added to the overall tally which have now climbed to 327941. Among the fresh infections, Srinagar recorded 92 cases,
In fresh guidelines issued on September 19, the government has rightly ordered special campaigns to “substantially increase vaccination coverage and achieve the target of 100% first dose within the earliest possible time” in Srinagar in view of the high incidence of cases.
Positive cases need to be detected with intensive testing and they ought to be isolated or quarantined at the earliest and their contacts traced and similarly isolated.
Vaccination remains the key to fight against the pestilence. If the government is able to meet the target of vaccinating the population, it would help reigning in the virus. Delta strain of the Covid-19 has been a source of concern, not only in the country but across the globe. Worldwide, the new surge is traced to the India-originated delta variant. It has been proven to be more infectious than the previous Covid strains.
The need for caution cannot be overemphasised. On ground, the Covid protocols are observed in breach rather than compliance. The situation has, more or less, gone back to square one.
Efforts must be stepped up to prevent any probable future surge, especially predicted 3rd wave.
The spurt in infections in Srinagar testifies to the perils of complacency. There are, however, ample reasons why the new wave of infections shouldn’t stoke pessimism. For one, much more is known about the virus in contemporary times than last year when governments across the globe were forced into one of the stringent lockdowns. Fortunately also, there hasn’t been an alarming surge in fatalities. The next wave may not be as severe as the initial one amid availability of the vaccine.
In the right direction, the Divisional Commissioner Kashmir held a meeting with prominent religious personalities of district Srinagar including Imams and Khateebs of shrines and mosques regarding the strict enforcement of Covid Appropriate Behaviour among the people in view of possible third wave of Covid-19.
While they are “social influencers”, the clergy need sensitizing people about adopting CAB and not to lower their guard to save themselves.
