With 305, Cachar reports second-highest caseload in Assam; ” Masks are still on the chin, not covering nose and mouth,” DC

According to National Health Mission, Assam, Cachar district has reported 305 cases on January 13, to become the district with the second-highest caseload in the state. According to NHM’s bulletin, 58 individuals in the district have tested positive on RT-PCR while 247 samples have tested positive on RAT. This rapid growth in the number of cases has emerged as a concern for the authorities.

The positive sign is that the rate of hospitalisation rate remains low. However, that cannot be an excuse for callousness. Doctors have already warned the population against lowering the guards as it won’t take much time to overwhelm the healthcare infrastructure. “People need to take precautions. The new virus variant is very high on rate of infection,” warns Deputy Commissioner of Cachar, Keerthi Jalli. “Masks are still on the chin and not covering the nose and mouth,” she shares her observation.

Deputy commissioner Keerthi Jalli adds, “Vaccine is the only way to reduce its footprint. Request second dose due benificiaries to please reach their nearest vaccination centre.”

Several districts across the country have imposed a range of restrictions. The Government of India as well as the NITI Aayog has maintained that the district magistrates must take decisions based on the situation in their respective jurisdictions. “Entry restrictions have to be brought completely which may hinder livelihoods which is why we need the public to cooperate and collectively take responsibility by refraining from stepping out unnecessarily, wearing a mask, taking the vaccine, and isolating yourself once you sense symptoms,” says deputy commissioner Keerthi Jalli.

This wave has hit the country like a Tsunami at a time when most residents are submerged into celebrating festivities. In Cachar too, Makar Sankranti is being celebrated and the people are visiting their relatives with sweets. All this combined, the otherwise less severe variant is leaving a huge impact.

On January 13, Karimganj reported 134 cases while 91 patients tested positive in Hailakandi.