Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan stated that COVID spread in the entire state continues to be on an all-time high as the one in four-person who are tested in the state comes out positive.
“We will have to ensure that serious caution is maintained. If need be, we might even have to consider a lockdown, but at the moment, it is not being considered. Lockdown will only be the last resort,” he said.
According to CM Vijayan, 35,013 people turned COVID positive after 1,38,190 samples went for testing.
“Across the state, there are 2,66,646 active cases. The situation is serious and all arrangements which include taking stock of oxygen cylinders, available beds, ICU, and ventilator facilities. All arrangements are being made to see that nothing like what happened in some other states happens here,” he said.
“Home quarantine is recommended for those who do not have symptoms and for those with mild symptoms. A attached bathroom is mandatory for home quarantine. People should get in touch with the local health workers for any need,” he added.
Vijayan also pointed out that despite the state’s best efforts, the Centre is yet to give free vaccines and hence has given order of one crore vaccine doses for Kerala.
“It is going to cost us Rs 493 crore, which includes GST. Rs 400 each for one Covishield vaccine and we have ordered 70 lakh doses, while Covaccine dose will cost Rs 600 per dose and 30 lakhs doses have been ordered. These vaccines will be delivered in the next three months. In case the Centre decides to give us free vaccines, the money paid will be adjusted accordingly,” he said.
