Mangaluru: A proposal on setting up Viral Research and Diagnostic Laboratory (VRDL) in the district for genome sequencing of samples of Covid-19 cases in order to detect Omicron variant was submitted to the government, Dakshina Kannada Deputy Commissioner Dr Rajendra K V said on Thursday.
“Genome sequencing facility will not only help Dakshina Kannada district but also, all coastal districts,” the DC said and added that a discussion on VRDL also was held with the Principal Secretary.
Speaking with media persons at the DC Hall, the DC said that after two Covid-19 clusters were identified in the district, all samples were sent for genome sequencing since November 21.
164 active cases in DK
The DC, quoting studies, said Omicron variant is three times more transmissible. Thus, this might result in a sudden increase in the cases. There are 164 active cases of Covid-19 in the district. Among them, 35 people are availing treatment in 58 hospitals and 129 are in home quarantine. The district administration intends to conduct around 7,500 tests daily.
1.14 lakh unvaccinated
The DC said a survey has revealed that 1,14,000 people across the district were yet to receive the first dose. A target was set to vaccinate a minimum of 75,000 people with the first dose by the end of this week. Vaccine hesitancy still prevails among people, the DC said and requested the people to avail vaccine. No cases of major side effects had been found in the district so far, he said.
16.1 lakh people vaccinated
The district administration had spoken to the heads of all religions to make vaccination certificate mandatory for devotees entering religious places. “There has been a good response to the vaccination drive after the second wave of Covid-19. Against the target of 17.5 lakh, 16.1 lakh people had been vaccinated with the first dose,” Dr Rajendra said.
The DC has urged people to impose self-regulation, in addition to following the Covid-19 guidelines, issued by the government. People should avoid crowds and should restrict their movements during the ongoing festival season. Those who have not availed vaccination should avail the same without any apprehensions.
Letter campaign to dispel fear Zilla Panchayat (DKZP) Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Dr Kumara said 45 days ago the DKZP had launched ‘Pa tra Abhiyana’, a letter campaign in government schools, focusing on rural areas. Under this campaign, letters were given to children, asking them to collect information on vaccination from their parents.
A total of 1,75,000 letters were distributed among the students. The letters, in the prescribed format, revealed that people were hesitating to receive the jab, due to fear of side affects.
“Awareness is being created to dispel fears. Door-to-door awareness is being created in the rural areas,” Dr Kumara said.