Mumbai: COVID-19 cases was raging in Mumbai and the entire state of Maharashtra for the past seven months. Reportedly, during the last fortnight, the number of COVID-19 declined sharply in the last fortnight.
As per records, the number of COVID-19 cases in Mumbai declined to the range of 5,000 to 8,000 while during the last week it was reported in the range of 18,000 to 24,000. Only 3,645 patients were undergoing treatment.
Health experts ruled out the possibility of attaining herd immunity. They attributed the state government's tracing-test-treatment method and the 'My Family is My Responsibility' campaign as the reasons behind the sharp decline during the third week of October.
It should also be noted that the number of COVID-19 cases in the country has also decreased. From 95,000 patients, the count has gone down to 55,000. In spite of this downward trend, many have raised concerns over herd immunity.
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President of Indian Medical Association (IMA) in Maharashtra Dr Avinash Bhondwe clarified that herd immunity can be ruled out only if 70 per cent of the population got infected. In order to consider the chance of herd immunity, over 91 crore people should be infected. Still, the number amounts to 4 crores, leaving no room for herd immunity.
However, AYUSH Task Force member Dr Sanjay said herd immunity could have been created but it needs to be ascertained by the ICMR. He also credited the government's tracing-test-treatment to and My Family, My Responsibility campaign.
"It's a relief that the number of patients has come down," Londhe said.
He further added that the decline in number does not mean that one can behave in a relaxed manner. Strict adherence to the rules will only keep COVID-19 at bay. So people must wear masks, follow social distancing and use sanitizers. Doctors have appealed for strict adherence to the rules even during the festive season.
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