Kannur: As Kerala is witnessing the rise of COVID-19 cases at an alarming rate, the monitoring has been intensified across the state. Now, it is mandatory to test for COVID-19 for those who come to hospitals or clinics with symptoms of influenza-like fever and other respiratory infections. If the result of the rapid antigen test shows negative, even then the patient has to undergo RTPCR, as per the circular of the Director of the Health Department. Masks have been made mandatory for those who are likely to develop serious illness. Also, Covid patients should be kept in a separate ward.

So far, 1435 people have been confirmed to have Covid-19. Currently, in the country, there are a total of 4026 patients. Few deaths have also been reported.

LF 7 of Omicron JN 1 variant belonging to the Omicron strain, is spreading fast nowadays. Although it is not a variant to be feared, the World Health Organization has included it in the group that needs special monitoring. Though the Health Department says it’s not a problematic situation, the elderly, those with uncontrolled diabetes, high blood pressure, asthma and chronic lung diseases such as COPD should be extra cautious in the current scenario.

Essential health reminders

The less severe variants of Covid 19 are still prevailing in the country. They can come and go like the common cold and mild fever. Most cases reported currently are milder ones which the patient will recover within four to five days.

Dr P S Shahjahan, Professor at the Department of Pulmonology, Alappuzha Government Medical College, mentioned that the most effective way to avoid infection is to return to basic preventive measures that include wearing a mask in crowded places, washing hands frequently with soap, avoiding unnecessary hospital visits, avoiding travel to areas with high COVID cases, avoiding contact with sick people, and seeking medical help as soon as symptoms appear.

Symptoms

The main symptoms resemble the common cold. Fever, runny nose, nasal congestion, sore throat, headache, muscle aches, fatigue, stomach upset, nausea and loss of appetite are more or less common.

If you experience symptoms, you should seek medical advice without self-medicating.