Daily Covid-19 cases jump in India: Was lifting restrictions a safe decision?

As Covid-19 cases rise in India again, let's take a look at how can you keep yourself protected against it.
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Covid-19 cases are once again on a rise. Image courtesy: Shutterstock
Aayushi Gupta Published: 18 Apr 2022, 23:40 pm IST
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The Covid-19 XE variant that was first detected in the UK, has shown traces in India. This variant came at a time when several states were easing Covid-19 restrictions due to a drop in cases. But the image changed within a week. In a latest development, India has witnessed a massive jump of nearly 90 percent with 2,183 new cases of infections over Sunday, according to reports quoting the Ministry of Health data. And this sparks the concern about a likely new wave. Amid this chaos, the question raises here is — was the decision of lifting the Covid-19 restriction safe?

On the vaccination front, India has successfully vaccinated 61 percent of the population and 72.2 percent of people with at least one dose. Apart from this, the booster dose drive is in full swing. Since March 19, India had been reporting less than 2,000 cases in a day. Seeing the fall in cases, several Indian states such as Delhi, Mumbai, and Uttar Pradesh had lifted almost all Covid-19 restrictions. However, now the restrictions are being re-implemented.

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Stay protected against Covid-19. Image courtesy: Shutterstock

What World Health Organization (WHO) says about lifting Covid-19 restrictions:

With the rise in Covid-19 cases, WHO asserted the importance of vaccinating everyone, and continues to follow all guidelines to prevent the virus from spreading.

Read an expert take on lifting restrictions and how you can protect yourself against the new variant

Dr Rajesh Shetty, who is an expert on the panel of some Covid-19 specialty hospitals in the country, tells HealthShots, “Covid-19 has really impacted all our lives over the last two years. Thankfully, now after two to three years of struggle, a lot of trials and tribulations, things looked like they were returning back to normal. Most of the countries were slowly removing the Covid-19 restrictions… But the question that arises in all our minds is, ‘Are we safe now? Are we protecting ourselves from any chance of infection – whether it is Covid-19 or otherwise? Is it better to continue the use of masks?”

He adds, “As a healthcare professional, my strong recommendation would be that at least some of the practices that we learned during Covid-19 should be continued over the years. Every person should at least use a mask.”

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Don’t neglect XE variant! Image courtesy: Shutterstock

According to Dr Shetty, everyone should follow these protective measures in the future also.

Also, read: Why do some people repeatedly test Covid-19 positive on an RT-PCR test?

Though cases are rising and Covid 19 variant XE may be more transmissible than any Covid-19 variant previously detected, don’t panic. Instead, follow Covid appropriate behaviour to stay safe.

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PERSONALISE NOW

Here’s a list of Covid-19 guidelines you should follow:

These guidelines on Covid-19 appropriate behavior were shared by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India.

1. Greet people without making physical contact in any way such as a handshake or hug.

2. 2 gaj ki doori mask hai jaruri! Maintain a physical distance of at least 6 feet (2 meters) with people.

3. Wear a mask, either a reusable homemade face cover or mask.

4. Avoid unnecessary touching of eyes, nose, and mouth.

5. Maintain respiratory hygiene at all costs.

6. Wash your hands frequently and thoroughly.

7. Regularly cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched surfaces is a must.

8. Avoid unnecessary travel.

9. Do not spit in the open area.

10. Avoid going to crowded places.

All in all, we are still not out of the woods yet. And we all must make an effort that this pandemic is completely contained.

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About the Author

Aayushi Gupta is a health writer with a special interest in trends related to diet, fitness, beauty and intimate health. With around 2 years of experience in the wellness industry, she is connected to leading experts and doctors to provide our readers with factually correct information. ...Read More

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