India has shown an increase of 16.8% in new cases of COVID-19 and a 0.17% increase in total fatality (Figure1). The increase in the number of new cases is largely due to the state of Maharashtra. However, there are other northern (Punjab), southern (Karnataka and Kerala) as well as central states (Chhattisgarh) that are showing an increase in the new cases of COVID-19 (Figure2).
Nearly 61% (n=28,699) increase in India’s new cases of COVID-19 (n=47,262) attributed to the state of Maharashtra; 5% (n=2254) Punjab, 4% (n=2010) Karnataka, 4% (n=1985) Kerala, and 4% (n=1910) Chhattisgarh (Figure2). Positive infectivity rate due to COVID-19 in Maharashtra is 13%, Kerala (9%), Chhattisgarh (6%), Karnataka (5%), and Punjab 4%.
COVID-19 Vaccination trends
India has administered nearly 50,841,286 doses of COVID-19 vaccine, 42,731,952 first dose and 8,109,334. Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal and Gujarat are the states with highest COVID-19 vaccination (Figure3).
Recommendations
India needs to keep a close watch on the resurgence of COVID-19 cases. Following steps should be taken urgently;
- Mandatory mask-wearing and hand hygiene habits
- Ensure people adhere to safety protocols
- Increase testing.
- Establish surveillance to track variance of COVID-19 Improved detection, containment, and mitigation
- Expand COVID-19 vaccination.
In addition, robust communication plan needs to be implemented to address vaccine hesitancy.
Source: SRT Original Published: March 24 2021
Author: Ashish Joshi PhD, MBBS, MPH
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