K'taka may witness COVID peak by May first week, slow down by May end: health minister

Experts have opined that the second wave is likely to peak in the state by the first week of May and slow down by the end of that month. "We have to take measures accordingly," Health and Medical Education Minister Dr K. Sudhakar said.

Bengaluru (Karnataka):Experts have opined that the second wave is likely to peak in the state by the first week of May and slow down by the end of that month. "We have to take measures accordingly," Health and Medical Education Minister Dr K. Sudhakar said.

Speaking to the media after a meeting with the Technical Advisory Committee (TAC), the minister cautioned to be vigilant till the end of May. "If there is a surge in cases, our health infrastructure will be overburdened. Experts of TAC have suggested being vigilant at borders and thoroughly test incoming travellers from high case-load states. TAC has been directed to come up with a report which will be submitted to the chief minister. Further, measures will be taken after a discussion with him, Dr Sudhakar said.

"Private hospitals have extended their support to the government. We were among the first in the country to start tele-ICU and the private hospitals, too, utilised this facility. We need to further strengthen this system. Suggestions that adversely affect economic activities will not be considered. However, experts have suggested that we curb large gatherings and crowds," he said.

Women are role model

The state has received 72 lakh doses of vaccine. So far, about 61 lakh doses of the vaccine have been administered in the state out of which 53% are given to women. Women have emerged a role model when it comes to participation in the vaccination drive, the minister said.

Speaking further, he said Prime Minister Narendra Modi gave a clarion call to celebrate 'Tika Utsav' on the birth anniversaries of Mahatma Jyotirao Phule -- who dedicated his entire life for the empowerment of women and the downtrodden through education and social transformation -- and Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar -- the architect of our Constitution and crusader of social justice.

"We must not let politics, religion, caste or language into this vaccination drive. Therefore, as a symbolic gesture, we have administered the vaccine to women belonging to different faiths today," he said.

'PM lauded Karnataka's efforts'

Dr Sudhakar said the prime minister spoke to Chief Minister B S Yedyurappa and appreciated Karnataka's efforts to contain the second wave. He said Modi suggested focusing on micro-containment zones.

"I will continue to make surprise visits to hospitals and vaccination centres. Irregularities and improper facilities won't be tolerated. If people are aware and co-operate, there is no need for a lockdown or a curb on economic activities," he said.