COVID deaths go up over 400 for second consecutive day in Delhi

New Delhi: COVID continued to wreak havoc in Delhi claiming 407 more lives and recording 20,394 fresh infection cases, taking the test positivity rate to 28.33 per cent.

This is the second consecutive day the national capital is reporting over 400 deaths. The total death count now stands at 16,966, according to government data.

A total of 71,997 tests, including 17,510 rapid-antigen tests, were conducted in a day. The city currently has 92,290 active cases, it added.

The number of containment zones in the city has also jumped to 42,098 from 39,556 the previous day.

The hospitals in the city are tackling a severe shortage of hospital beds, medical oxygen and other key equipment, with many people losing their lives waiting for treatment.

Meanwhile, the Delhi government has announced that it will extend lockdown for another week as the cases are exponentially rising in the city. The current lockdown was due to expire on Monday.

Covid vaccination for people between 18 years and 44 years in the capital will start on Monday. The Delhi CM Aravind Kejriwal has updated they have received 4.5 lakh vaccine doses which have been distributed in all districts.

''Vaccination for people between 18-44 years started at only one centre. This is symbolic only. We have received 4.5 lakh vaccine doses. It is being distributed in all districts. Large-scale vaccination in Delhi will begin from the day after tomorrow" he said.

CM also urged people to register and book an appointment for availing of vaccination. "There is no walk-in for now. I request people to come only with registration and appointment," he added.