BENGALURU: In the wake of Maharashtra and Kerala reporting several cases of people being infected by the Delta Plus variant of the virus, Karnataka has decided to step up surveillance along borders it shares with these states.
After a meeting with health experts and officials, chief minister BS Yediyurappa on Friday directed officials to strictly monitor borders, and ensure all those who enter from these two states are compulsorily tested.
“We need to ensure our borders are secure to prevent the variant from spreading in Karnataka,” he said.
He however, insisted the variant is under control in the state.
Delta Plus was declared a variant of concern by the Centre.
Earlier, health minister K Sudhakar said two cases of Delta Plus variant — one each in Bengaluru and Mysuru — were identified till date and both patients had only mild symptoms.
“The Mysuru patient has completely recovered.
Primary contacts of these two people have tested negative.
Therefore, there is no need to panic.
Genome sequencing is being conducted every day to detect new strains,” Sudhakar said He said six new genome sequencing labs are being set up in Bengaluru, Mysuru, Shivamogga, Hubballi, Mangaluru and Vijayapura.
On the surge in Maharashtra and Kerala, where the positivity rate is above 10%, Sudhakar said the government is ramping up testing in border areas.
“We have instructed the administration in border districts to conduct more tests,” he said.
40 attendees for weddingsMeanwhile, the government on Friday permitted conduct of weddings in choultries, hotels, resorts and wedding halls, but limited the number of guests to 40.
Weddings can be held from June 28, CM BS Yediyurappa announced.
An order issued by the government says those organising weddings should obtain permission from either the joint commissioner in BBMP zones or the tahsildar in taluks.
The officer concerned shall issue 40 passes per wedding function by name, the order said.
“Only people with passes will be allowed to attend the function.
The passes are not transferable,” the order said.
“Against the earlier limit of 10 people each from the bride and groom’s sides, the number has been raised to 20 each,” officials said.