Centre extends Covid containment measures till 28 Feb amid Omicron surge

New Delhi: In view of the surge in Covid cases in the country driven by the Omicron variant, the Union Home Ministry on Thursday extended the existing COVID-19 containment measures till February 28.

In a letter to all states and Union territories, Union Home Secretary Ajay Bhalla stated that the current positivity rate of over 10% in 407 districts across 34 states and UTs was a matter of concern and required the exercise of caution and vigilance.

"It is still a matter of concern that 407 districts in 34 states and Union Territories are reporting a positivity rate of more than 10 per cent.

"Therefore, looking at the current trends of Covid, there is a need to exercise caution and vigilance," Mr Bhalla said.

He reiterated that given the current situation all the states and Union Territories must observe all precautions and not let their guard down.

He said based on the normative framework, mentioned in the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare in a letter on December 12, 2021, and assessment of the situation, local and district administrations should continue to take prompt and appropriate containment measures.

"Imposition and lifting of local curbs and restrictions should be dynamic, based on the case positivity and hospitalisation status at the local level," Mr Bhalla said.

The home secretary emphasised that there should be a continued focus on the five-fold strategy of test, track, treat and vaccination, and adherence to Covid- appropriate behaviour.

Mr Bhalla said the state enforcement machinery should strictly enforce the Covid norms, such as wearing face masks and maintaining social distancing in all public areas and gatherings.

Further, states and Union Territories should continue to hold regular media briefings to disseminate the right information and to discourage any misinformation on new variants of concern, he said.

"I would, therefore, urge you to issue necessary directions to the districts and all other local authorities concerned, to take necessary measures for prompt and effective management of COVID-19, strict compliance with various advisories issued by the MoHFW on the new variant of concern (Omicron) and strict enforcement of Covid-appropriate behaviour," the Union home secretary added.