Kerala starts mega covid test drive; minister denies lockdown

Kerala Chief Secretary VP Joy on Thursday said that it has been decided to conduct mass testing of 2.5 lakh people against COVID-19 on coming Friday and Saturday. On COVID-19 restrictions, it said a maximum of 150 people will only be allowed in public functions.

Thiruvananthapuram: As the state has seen a rapid increase in coronavirus cases, Kerala has started a mega covid test drive from today. As per the reports, The health department aims to conduct at least 2.5 lakh tests in the next two days.

This comes after Kerala Chief Secretary VP Joy on Thursday chaired a high-level meeting with Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan.

The mass test follows a recommendation by health experts to identify the patients as soon as possible to reduce the spread of the second wave of covid in the state. The health experts advised giving priority to the officials and politicians who have been actively involved in the Assembly elections. It asks to conduct a screening test as many people as possible.

In addition, those in the high-risk category will be screened on priority. The high-risk category includes public transport, tourism, shops, hotels, supply workers, and those over the age of 45 who have not received the covid vaccine yet.

On COVID-19 restrictions, the minister directed a maximum of 150 people will only be allowed in public functions.

Urging the people to conduct "maximum meetings online", he said the organisers should inform the health department before conducting any event.

"Shops and restaurants should close by 9 pm. Bars and theatres will not be allowed to work after 9 pm. Shops should promote a home delivery system," he said.

The senior official said that the Thrissur Pooram festival will be conducted with restrictions.

The festival passes will be issued to people who have taken two doses of vaccination or those with COVID-19 negative certificate, he added.

Joy said there is no need to impose lockdown now.

"We can reduce cases in two weeks time if all these restrictions are imposed properly. Regarding the working of offices in containment zones, district collectors can take a decision," he said.

Meanwhile, Kerala reported 8,216 new COVID-19 cases, 2,700 recoveries, and 20 deaths on Thursday.