Thiruvananthapuram: Kerala has not been free from the second wave of Covid-19, Health Minister Veena George said on Saturday.
He added, therefore, people must be “extra careful” and be aware of the transmission of infection to prevent the third wave to occur, PTI reported.
At a special meeting was held to review the preparation of the state to handle the third wave, George said about half of the population of Kerala vulnerable to the virus and therefore, precautions must be taken as the presence of a very contagious Delta variant has been detected, in accordance with the release of the state government.
He said people need to take precautions such as wearing masks and keeping distance and social isolation until the majority of the population is vaccinated.
The minister said if the third wave reached before vaccination reached everyone, the severity of infection and those who needed hospitalization will be high.
After the vaccine is available in sufficient quantities, immunization will be carried out on the war footing, he said, adding that the health department is well equipped to deal with the same.
Prevention must also be taken after vaccinated, he said.
At the meeting, ensuring the availability of oxygen and treatment facilities if the third wave occurs also discussed, the release said.
It was also decided to take advantage of funds available under the scheme of the central and state government, corporate social responsibility and donation by voluntary organizations to establish an oxygen generator unit.
George directs the Kerala Medical Services Corporation to ensure that 33 oxygen generator units, which will produce 77 metric tons of oxygen, established in various parts of the country, made operational in August itself, the release said.
The Minister also directed the Head of the Department to ensure the stockpiling of Covid medical supply in medical colleges and other medical centers.