Surveillance Intensified at Tamil Nadu Airports Amidst No Detection of New COVID-19 Variant
In response to the global concerns surrounding the new ‘XE’ variant of COVID-19, Tamil Nadu’s government has taken proactive measures to safeguard public health, especially at international airports.
No ‘XE’ Variant Detected in Tamil Nadu, State Government Assures
Tamil Nadu’s Minister for Medical and Family Welfare, Ma Subramanian, reiterated that there have been no reported cases of the ‘XE’ variant within the state. This comes after a reported case in Maharashtra, which the Union government later denied.
Contact Tracing Heightened as COVID-19 Cases Increase in the State
With a recent uptick in COVID-19 cases within Tamil Nadu, health authorities are leaving no stone unturned. The Health department has instructed officials in districts to initiate contact tracing even if a single infection is detected in a region.
Tamil Nadu Airports Advised to Enhance Surveillance Amid Global Concerns
Tamil Nadu boasts four international airports, making it crucial to maintain strict surveillance. Chennai, Tiruchirappalli, Madurai, and Coimbatore airports have been advised to intensify monitoring and screening protocols.
State Focuses on Genomic Sequencing and Screening at International Airports
The government is actively performing Whole Genomic Sequencing (WGS) analysis on individuals who test positive for COVID-19. At the international airports, regular fever screening camps are conducted, and health officials continue to conduct random sampling of passengers arriving from various countries.
Marginal Rise in New COVID-19 Cases in Tamil Nadu
Tamil Nadu has reported a marginal increase in new COVID-19 infections, with 30 people testing positive. This brings the total caseload to 34,52,985. While the numbers are relatively low, health authorities remain vigilant, especially in districts like Chennai, Chengalpet, Tiruvallur, and Kancheepuram.
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