Thiruvananthapuram: Health minister Veena George has urged the public to stay vigilant in view of the COVID-19 third wave in the state. Experts also opined that lapses in COVID preventive measures will lead to a third wave of the pandemic. It is learned that half of the population in Kerala are likely to get infected with the virus. The minister also cautioned the public on the outbreak of delta variant in the state.

If the state faces a third wave of the virus before vaccinating the majority of the population, there are chances for more critical cases and hospital admissions will also go up. The health department is all set to vaccinate maximum number of people on war footing according to the availability of stock.

Though efforts are being taken for ensuring vaccination, each one should take precautionary measures by wearing masks and maintaining social distance. Those who are vaccinated also must follow the precautionary measures, said the minister.

The health department has taken precautionary measures in view of the third wave. A special review meet was held for ensuring the availability of oxygen and medical treatment.

33 oxygen generation units will be ready in the state by August. The minister has given directions to Medical Services Corporation to complete the work of oxygen generation units.

With the establishment of the units, Kerala will be able to produce 77 metric tonnes of additional oxygen. The minister also directed department heads to ensure the stock of equipment needed for COVID treatment.