Compulsory Covid test for all international passengers: Dr K Sudhakar

Bengaluru, Nov 30, 2021: Karnataka has decided to make Covid test compulsory for all international passengers.

Health and Medical Education Minister Dr. K Sudhakar today said that around 2,500 international passengers land in Karnataka every day and it is now mandatory for everyone to undergo RTPCR testing.

Speaking to reporters after the technical advisory committee meeting, Dr K Sudhakar said that at present a mandatory RTPCR test is being carried out for travelers from countries where the new virus is found. Chief Minister has instructed to test travelers from all countries.

“About 2,500 passengers come to the state every day, from various nations. Those who are negative will be home quarantined for seven days. Those who are symptomatic and negative will have to undergo testing at home on the 5th day. Asymptomatic will be tested on the 7th day. If positive, they will be immediately hospitalized. And they will be treated separately,” the Minister said.

The Minister said that Covid’s new variant, Omicron, has been found in 12 countries across the world. To prevent this variant, all necessary precautionary measures are being taken in the state.

“Considering our population and health infrastructure, we need to be more careful than other countries,” Dr. Sudhakar said.

Preparations for the health care services including availability of beds, oxygen beds, deployment of doctors and personnel, supply of medicine were also discussed at the meeting.

“Those who have not got vaccination should voluntarily come forward and get vaccinated and stay safe. Suggestions regarding vaccine drive and measures to increase the numbers were discussed. About 41 lakh people are slated to get the second dose of the Covid vaccine. Priority will be given to reach out to these people”, Dr. Sudhakar said.

The central government is getting samples from all states. Every international passenger’s contacts are being tracked and tested, the Minister said.

Guidelines for treatment
Ways to effectively deal with the Omicron virus, how to control it, and what preparations are to be taken in hospitals and medical colleges were discussed in the meeting. Using technology such as Quarantine App, Tele Medicine are also being considered. In addition, a panel of 10 experts has been set up to formulate separate guidelines for treatment, Minister Sudhakar told reporters.

Few Other points made by Health Minister Dr. K Sudhakar

• Urges people to come forward and get vaccinated without delay
• Chief Minister will write a letter to Prime Minister urging him to impose restrictions on travelers from specific countries.
• Attempts are on to prevent viral transmission at an early stage.
• There have been suggestions that those who do not receive the second dose shouldn’t have access to the mall, theater, and government should decide non-payment for treatment in a private hospital and others. We are yet to take any decisions on these.