Covid-19: Negligence at festivals may cost dearly: Reports

Celebration of Onam festival in Kerala without observing much restraint resulted in a rise of COVID-19 cases in the State. At a time when more festivals are around the corner, the people must take a cue from the case of Kerala, which at the outset was one among the least affected States in the country.

Hyderabad: The world continues to fight-off novel coronavirus. As of today, the pandemic claimed over 10 lakh lives globally even as the case tally rose to 3.6 crore globally. In India, 66 lakh cases and 1 lakh deaths have been reported so far.

Recently, the Union Health Ministry issued a fresh advisory to the State governments, directing them to maintain a high level of alertness during the upcoming festive seasons. Usually in India, festivals are synonymous with large crowds and community celebrations. But due to the spread of coronavirus, physical distancing has become the new norm. We must put festivities on the backburner, for now. Onam 2020 saw Keralites from different parts of the world return home for celebrations. Unfortunately, the festival saw a rise in coronavirus infected cases in the State. Negligence in following pandemic protocols has proven disastrous for Malappuram, Idukki, Kollam and Pathanamthitta. Chief Minister of Kerala Pinarayi Vijayan had to impose Section 144 across the state till October 31.

Healthcare experts have warned of similar consequences in West Bengal as the state is renowned for its Durga Puja celebrations that attract people in huge numbers. The Maharashtra government has already banned Garba and Dandiya events during Navaratri. Uttar Pradesh, Delhi and Telangana governments are preparing necessary guidelines to be enforced. People must take equal responsibility and voluntarily abide by precautionary measures throughout Bathukamma, Dasara and Deepavali celebrations.

Initially, the World Health Organization (WHO) said that the novel coronavirus transmitted through large droplets when an infected host sneezed or coughed. But later on, it was confirmed that aerosol transmission was also possible. India announced its first lockdown with the aim of containing such the contagion. As the country began unlocking in a phased manner, the public began taking the virus lightly. The Central and State governments have issued several directives for wearing a mask and following social distancing. Several states have imposed no mask penalties and imprisonment. But more people are going out without wearing masks, putting others in danger.

The pandemic is now raging in small towns and villages. Contagious diseases will be on the prowl during monsoons. If people decide to take part in festivities at this point of time, no government will be able to control the consequences. We must understand the budgetary and functional limitations of our public health system and tread carefully. Instead of following the lead of Onam celebrations, let us behave more responsibly by wearing a mask and abstaining from crowds and gatherings. Since there is no concrete assurance about a vaccine yet, precaution is the best defence.