Jabs at District Hospital, K.R. Hospital, Seth Mohandas Tulsidas Hospital, PHCs at Kyathamaranahalli, Rajendranagar 

Mysuru/Bengaluru: Following the return of COVID-19 scare with the increasing cases due to emergence of JN.1 sub-variant in the State, the District Administration has launched the vaccination drive targeting senior citizens aged 60 years and above and vulnerable section with less immunity power from today.

Minister for Medical Education Dr. Sharan Prakash Patil yesterday said people above 60 years and those with comorbidities can get vaccinated for the COVID-19 from Jan. 3 (today) onwards at the District Hospitals in the wake of rising infections of JN.1 sub-variant.

The Minister, however, underlined that there was no need to panic and urged people to take precautionary measures to tackle the spread of the virus.

He also convened a meeting with the heads of medical institutions and hospitals coming under the purview of the Medical Education Department along with the head of the COVID-19 Technical Advisory Committee and its members in Bengaluru. After the meeting, the Minister said that there was no specific direction from the Central Government on new vaccines.

As per the Health Dept., the same vaccines that were administered during the first and second wave of the pandemic will be given this time and people above 60 years and those with comorbidities can get vaccinated.

As per the directions of the Central Government under its National Health Mission (NHM), 30,000 doses of ‘Corbevax’ vaccine have been supplied to the State, with 1,200 doses of vaccine supplied to Mysuru district.

Speaking to Star of Mysore, District Reproductive Child Health Officer (RCHO) Dr. M.S. Jayanth, who is in-charge of vaccination drive, said: “Arrangements have been made to administer the vaccine at District Hospital on KRS Road, K.R. Hospital on Irwin Road, SMT Hospital on JLB Road and PHCs at Kyathamaranahalli and Rajendranagar and all Taluk Hospitals in the district.”

“Over 100 doses of vaccine will be supplied to all Taluk Hospitals and 200 doses for all the three Assembly Constituencies (Krishnaraja, Chamaraja and Narasimharaja) in city, considering the greater number of people in these Constituencies among the target group comprising high risk category. But the people should not panic,” he added. 

Sources said, some of the schools in Mysuru have also resumed taking precautions against the spread of COVID and have instructed the students to wear mask and bring sanitisers.

According to the Mission Director of NHM, as per the guidelines of GoI, Corbevax vaccine can be administered as a heterologous precautionary dose.

Experts have opined that the JN.1 sub-variant is likely to spread rapidly but unlikely to cause serious health issues. Though the WHO and many experts have stated that the sub-variant is unlikely to cause serious health problems for infected people, the State has instructed the officials to be vigilant and take precautionary measures and create awareness.

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Mysore/Mysuru: Deputy Commissioner (DC) Dr. K.V. Rajendra has instructed the Officers of Health and Family Welfare Department to make all preparations to tackle the spread of new COVID-19 variant in the district.

Addressing the Health and Family Welfare Department officials at a meeting held at his Office yesterday, DC said “With the rise in COVID cases the tests should be conducted in compliance with the guidelines issued by the Government and if the person tests positive for the virus, the hospitals should be ready to admit them for treatment.”

The beds, oxygen supplies, oxygen plants, drugs and ambulances should be in better condition and cleanliness and all required facilities to treat inpatients should be made at the District Hospital and Taluk General Hospitals.

By adhering to COVID safety norms, it is essential for the general public to prevent the spread of the virus. Those suffering from cold, cough, respiratory ailments, fever and headache should consult doctor, without getting panicked over their health condition, advised the DC.

Explaining about Covid scenario, District Health Surveillance Officer Dr. Mahadev Prasad said “Mysuru district has 84 active cases, with 25 fresh cases registered on Sunday (Dec. 31, 2023) alone. 20 COVID patients are under treatment at the hospital.”

Additional Deputy Commissioner R. Lokanath, ZP Chief Executive Officer K.M. Gayathri, District Health Officer (DHO) Dr. P.C. Kumaraswamy and other Officers were present.

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Mysore/Mysuru: A COVID-infected elderly man with comorbidities (simultaneous presence of two or more diseases or medical conditions), passed away in city yesterday.

The deceased is aged about 74 years and was suffering from Blood Pressure (BP), heart-related ailments and respiratory problems. He was admitted to a private hospital in city and was subjected to tests which confirmed that he was infected with COVID virus.

Sources in the Health Department said that COVID infection was not the direct cause for the death besides stating that there was no need to panic.

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Mysore/Mysuru: The surge in tourist arrivals in Mysuru since Dec. 23 has brought joy to the hotel, hospitality and travel industry.

However, it has also created concerns for the authorities overseeing Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens, commonly known as Mysuru Zoo, due to the ongoing threat of the COVID-19 JN.1 variant.

Each day, the Zoo attracts thousands of tourists, with the influx beginning as soon as the gates open. Visitors typically spend the entire day observing the animals, which raises the potential risk of disease spread among the animals, considering their heightened vulnerability.

The majority of tourists visiting Mysuru are from Kerala, where the COVID-19 JN.1 variant is currently most active. Additionally, Mysuru itself is experiencing an alarming increase in COVID-19 cases. Despite the substantial influx of visitors at the Zoo entrance gates, all individuals are subjected to thermal screening before entry.

Concerns arise among authorities due to the potential for errors during the thermal screening process and there is an increased burden on the gatekeepers and sometimes they allow the people inside without proper screening. Zoo officers recognise the need for meticulous screening becomes crucial to mitigate the risk of introducing the virus into the Zoo premises, considering the challenging circumstances.

It is noteworthy that, given the virus’s transmission through physical contact, the layout of the Zoo provides a measure of safety, with animal enclosures positioned at a distance from visitor galleries and walkways.

Precautionary measures

Animal keepers act as intermediaries between Zoo animals and tourists. Consequently, these keepers have received instructions to take precautions, including the mandatory use of high-quality masks at all times.

The Zoo staff have undergone training in safe animal handling practices, the correct utilisation of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and adherence to hygiene protocols. Officials have established and communicated clear guidelines for staff interactions with both animals and visitors, particularly during this period of heightened awareness.

Zoo Executive Director Mahesh Kumar stated, “We have implemented heightened hygiene practices within animal enclosures, ensured proper ventilation and minimised unnecessary contact with animals, especially those considered susceptible to the virus. Continuous monitoring of animals for any potential signs of illness remains a top priority.”

“We have taken all necessary precautions and currently, there is no need to close the Zoo for visitors, as was done during the first and second waves of COVID in 2020 and 2021. If the Government mandates closure in the event of a surge in cases, we will comply. However, such a situation has not arisen as of now,” he explained.

Visitors are required to walk over a disinfectant ‘foot dip’ at the entrance of the Zoo and the entire premises is sanitised after the Zoo closes in the evening. To ensure safety of animals, food is properly cooked and fruits are washed with chemicals and water before being fed to them, Mahesh Kumar added.

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• Chamundi Hill gates to close at 9 pm on Dec. 31; 334 CCTV cameras to watch over revelry.
• Party organisers must implement Know Your Customer (KYC) protocols for patrons.

Mysore/Mysuru: As Mysuru readies itself to usher in New Year 2024 amid concerns over the JN. 1 COVID-19 variant, City Police Commissioner Ramesh Banoth has issued directives to ensure a safe and orderly celebration.

The Commissioner, along with two Deputy Commissioners of Police (Law and Order) M. Muthuraj and S. Jahnavi (Crime and Traffic), addressed the media in a press conference at his office this morning.

He asked party organisers and the general public to conclude New Year’s eve celebrations by 1 am on the intervening night of Dec. 31, 2023 and Jan. 1, 2024.

He outlined key strategies, with heightened patrolling in the Central Business District (CBD) areas of Mysuru city as well as on the city borders, where the Police will be out in full force to maintain law and order, ensuring the safety of residents and visitors alike.

Keeping in view the maintenance of law and order during the celebration mood, hotels, restaurants, clubs, resorts, home stays, service apartments, apartment associations, malls and organisations have been categorically told to abide by the restrictions.

Safety of everyone: “Every year, New Year’s eve is celebrated with enthusiasm and lots of action on the road. We have held talks with all stakeholders to ensure the safety of everyone. We appeal to the people to celebrate New Year’s eve responsibly,” he stated.

With the expected revelry concentrated in the city’s pubs, bars, resorts, clubs, hotels and restaurants, these establishments will be under strict vigilance. Commissioner Ramesh emphasised the importance of a visible Police presence around liquor vends and wholesale outlets, hotels and clubs to deter any potential disruptions to the celebrations.

“No one will be allowed to ransack the private properties by breaking pots and other articles. Wheeling and other untoward incidents aren’t allowed, with Police deployed in various places. While there are no restrictions on hosting parties in private, they have to keep a check on the sound or else Police will be forced to act,” he said.

Chamundi Hill gates close at 9 pm

Access to Chamundi Hill and its surrounding areas will be restricted after 9 pm on Dec. 31. The decision is aimed at ensuring a controlled and secure environment during celebrations. All gates leading to Chamundi Hill will be closed after 9 pm, restricting entry and exit.

Even before the gate closure, carrying of food or liquor bottles will be strictly prohibited to maintain decorum and safety. Only residents of Chamundi Hill will be granted permission to enter and exit the gates. Their identities will be verified at the gate entrance to ensure authorised access.

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Mysore/Mysuru: Amidst the surge in COVID-19 cases in Karnataka and Mysuru, health authorities are intensifying efforts to combat the virus. Mysuru Deputy Commissioner Dr. K.V. Rajendra, has mandated the daily conduction of 1,000 COVID-19 tests in the district. Instructions have been issued to test patients with Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) and Severe Acute Respiratory Infection (SARI) for COVID-19. Testing criteria will also be based on the specific case, extending beyond ILI and SARI categories.

During a meeting with hospital heads, including K.R. Hospital, District Hospital and those governed by the District Health Office this morning, Dr. Rajendra stressed the importance of proactive COVID-19 precautionary measures.

Key directives include mandatory mask-wearing for individuals above 60 years and those with heart-related conditions. Individuals displaying COVID-19 symptoms are encouraged to undergo testing. The suggestion of awareness campaigns at check posts in Kerala and Tamil Nadu, communicated in languages understood by travellers, was also highlighted.

Preparations are underway to ensure each taluk hospital has 5 beds and 2 oxygen ventilators on standby. The importance of stockpiling Liquid Medical Oxygen, jumbo cylinders, oxygen generation and storage plants, and essential medicines was underscored.

In a related meeting yesterday, mock drills for outbreak scenarios were emphasised by Dr. Rajendra. DHO Dr. P.C. Kumaraswamy confirmed the implementation of steps to control COVID-19 cases, including the placement of awareness pamphlets in public spaces. The meeting was attended by Zilla Panchayat Chief Executive Officer K.M. Gayathri, along with officials from various departments and health officials.

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Mysore/Mysuru: With the new COVID variant JN.1 causing scare in Kerala, Mysuru Deputy Commissioner (DC) Dr. K.V. Rajendra visited Bavali check-post along Kerala border on Mysuru-Manandavadi Road last evening and inspected the precautionary measures taken and the checks being done as directed by the Health Department.

H.D. Kote Taluk Health Officer (THO) Dr. Ravikumar apprised the Deputy Commissioner on the measures and the health checks being conducted on travellers entering Karnataka from Kerala through the Bavali check-post. The THO said that apart from mandatory thermal screening, nasal swab tests and other health checks of travellers from Kerala are being done if found necessary. Also, educative pamphlets that carry messages on symptoms, health precautions and other safety measures  are being distributed among the tribals living in Tribal hamlets (Haadis) located on  either side of the border.

Later speaking, Dr. Rajendra stressed on the need for carrying out extensive campaigns in tribal hamlets and other human habitats regarding the precautionary and safety measures to be taken to prevent the new COVID variant (JN.1) from entering the State.

Asking the people living in the vicinity of the borders to immediately undergo a health check-up if they catch symptoms such as fever, cough, cold, sore throat etc., the DC advised the people on maintaining cleanliness and hygiene in hamlets and other human habitats in order to prevent the new virus of the deadly COVID. He also told the health officials to quarantine those who are found symptomatic of the deadly virus and to provide them the necessary medication.

ZP CEO K.M. Gayathri, Hunsur Assistant Commissioner Ruchi Bindal, H.D. Kote Tahsildar Srinivas, Hunsur Sub-division Dy.SP Gopalakrishna and other officials were present.

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Union Health Minister holds meeting with all State Governments; monitors cases uptick

Mysore/Mysuru: Even as Karnataka has decided to enhance testing and Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS) of positive cases in preparation for a potential resurgence of COVID-19, driven by the JN.1 subvariant prevalent in neighbouring Kerala, Mysuru Deputy Commissioner (DC) Dr. K.V. Rajendra has clarified that there will be no restrictions for Christmas and New Year celebrations.

Nevertheless, Dr. Rajendra has appealed to people to exercise caution if infected and be mindful of the potential for disease spread. “Currently, no restrictions are in place for the upcoming Christmas and New Year celebrations. However, individuals aged 60 and above are required to wear masks as a mandatory precaution. If anyone is infected, it is imperative to refrain from moving around and adhere to strict isolation at home,” Dr. Rajendra told Star of Mysore this morning.

The District Administration is well-prepared to handle any unforeseen circumstances, with a focus on specialised care, including provisions for hospital beds, ICUs, MICUs and Liquid Medical Oxygen (LMO) generation and supply. District health officials are checking the status of PSA plants, LMO plants, ICU ventilators, oxygen cylinders, oxygen concentrators, medical gas pipeline and equipment in ICU.

Dr. Rajendra reassured “Patients, especially those with comorbidities, requiring medical attention can be admitted to hospitals without unnecessary panic. Individuals exhibiting symptoms should promptly undergo swab tests at the designated hospitals identified by the District Administration.”

One death in Karnataka  

Reports said that, a 64-year-old man, who tested positive for COVID-19, passed away on Dec. 15 in Karnataka. The patient, who had pre-existing health conditions, presented symptoms including breathlessness, cough, fatigue and loss of appetite.

Upon evaluation, a chest X-ray unveiled a severe lower respiratory tract infection. Subsequently, the patient, confirmed positive for COVID-19, was promptly transferred to an isolation ward and provided Non-Invasive Ventilation (NIV) support.

Despite receiving a comprehensive treatment regimen comprising antibiotics, anti-virals, antihistamines, steroids and unfractionated heparin (UFH), the patient’s condition deteriorated. Hospital records indicate that he succumbed to severe COVID pneumonia, heart failure and cardiogenic shock. The death, however, is not mentioned in the Karnataka Health Department’s daily COVID-19 abstract yet.

2,041 active cases in Kerala: The Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare convened a meeting with all State Governments via video conferencing this morning. The meeting was chaired by Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya. Union Ministers S.P. Singh Baghel, Bharati Pravin Pawar, Health Secretary Sudhanshu Pant, Secretary Department of Health Research Dr Rajiv Bahl and Dr. V.K. Paul, Member, (Health), NITI Aayog, were also part of the meeting.

During the meeting, Mandaviya stressed it was important to remain alert and be prepared against new and emerging strains of Covid-19. He called for the need for joint efforts between the Centre and States to ensure efficient management of the virus. “Let us undertake mock drills once every three months at both Central and State levels and share best practices,” he said.

India today saw an uptick in COVID-19 cases, with 614 fresh infections recorded in the past 24 hours, the highest since May 21, according to the Union Health Ministry data.

Kerala has recorded 292 new COVID-19 infections and three fatalities in the last 24 hours. According to the Ministry website, 292 of the 341 COVID-19 infections recorded countrywide until 8 am today were from Kerala, bringing the State’s active cases to 2,041.

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• Health Department orders 3 lakh medical kits
• Rapid Antigen Tests at border districts increased

Mysuru / Bengaluru / Madikeri: Amid the growing scare of COVID-19 subvariant JN.1 cases in Kerala, the Karnataka Government has made it mandatory for people above the age of 60 and those with comorbidities, to wear masks.

Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao has informed that they have increased tests among people reporting symptoms of COVID-19 subvariant JN.1. The Minister also informed that the State Government has increased surveillance in border districts with Kerala.

The situation is being continuously monitored and there is no need for any restriction on movement and gathering of people as of now and the Government would come out with an advisory.

“There is no need for anyone to worry. We had held a meeting day-before-yesterday and our Technical Advisory Committee headed by Dr. K. Ravi had met yesterday and there was a discussion between our officials and experts regarding the measures to be taken,” Rao said.

“Those above 60 years of age and those with comorbidities like issues related to heart and kidney among others and those with cough, phlegm and fever should mandatorily wear masks. We are communicating this to the public. Also, we have asked our hospitals and health centres to be prepared. There should be more surveillance in border districts like — Mysuru, Kodagu, Dakshina Kannada, Chamarajanagar — which share a border with Kerala,” he added.

The Union Ministry of Health has initiated preparedness measures after a case of the JN.1 subvariant of COVID has been identified in Kerala as part of the ongoing routine surveillance conducted by the Indian SARS-CoV-2 Genomics Consortium (INSACOG).

Mock drills at hospitals

Meanwhile, the State Health Department has ordered mock drills to be conducted at all Government hospitals to ensure the preparedness of the medical infrastructure in case of an emergency. Concerns have also been raised over the monitoring of the movement of people from Kerala to the border districts of Karnataka.

The Health Department has ordered 3 lakh medical kits and increased the number of Rapid Antigen Tests (RAT), especially in bordering regions and the State Capital Bengaluru. Mock drills are being conducted to ensure the availability of beds, staff, doctors, the proper functioning of oxygen plants, as well as crucial medicine in case of outbreak of a pandemic situation.

Borders on alert

Meanwhile, the Deputy Commissioners (DCs) of Mysuru, Chamarajanagar and the coastal districts of Dakshina Kannada and Udupi, bordering Kerala, have held meetings to tackle the evolving situation. Thousands of students, businessmen and people visit Mangaluru city in the Dakshina Kannada district every day.

There are more than 20 entry points, apart from Highways, to the coastal region of Karnataka and concerns have been raised about the absence of monitoring of symptomatic persons. Authorities are preparing to start monitoring the movement of passengers from the Bavali check-post to Mysuru city.

Sources in the Health Department have said that there is uncertainty over the current situation. However, the authorities are yet to make a decision regarding screening of passengers from Kerala with symptoms.

COVID-19 subvariant JN.1

The JN.1 variant of COVID-19 is considered to be the Omicron subvariant BA.2.86 or Pirola.

COVID-19 subvariant JN.1 is not very different from previous Omicron strains with high transmissibility and mild symptoms, yet preventive measures are important as vulnerable populations may always be at risk.

JN.1 was first detected in the USA in September this year. In China, seven cases were reported on December 15 causing concern about its spread.

The symptoms of COVID-19 subvariant JN.1 include fever, runny nose, sore throat, gastro-intestinal issues.

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62nd National Pharmacy Week at JSS College of Pharmacy

Mysore/Mysuru: Dr. G. Selvaraj, former Director of Drugs Control, Tamil Nadu, said: “India has made significant strides in pharmaceutical industry, thus catapulting the country to the third position in pharmacy sector.”

Speaking after inaugurating 62nd National Pharmacy Week celebrations organised by Indian Pharmaceutical Association (IPA), Mysuru Local Branch, in association with JSS College of Pharmacy, Mysuru, on the theme ‘Join Pharmacists to ensure patient safety,’ at the College premises in Shivarathreeshwara Nagar here yesterday, Dr. Selvaraj said: “It is due to considerable progress made by our country in pharmacy sector that we were able to record many innovations during COVID-19 pandemic. Vaccine against COVID was developed and was even exported to other countries.”

True to the theme of 62nd National Pharmacy Week celebrations, the pharma sector should work in tandem with sellers, medical representatives, drug manufacturers, quality assurance and control cell, hospital and the community, Dr. Selvaraj added.

In the wake of several instances of patients losing their lives due to adverse effect of consuming drugs, we should take utmost precautions to ensure patient safety, he said.

Earlier, Dr. Selvaraj unveiled the trophies to be distributed as part of National Pharmacy                     Week celebrations.

Dr. T.M. Pramod Kumar, Principal of JSS College of Pharmacy and also the President of IPA Mysuru branch, Dr. M. Manjunatha, Principal of Cauvery College of Pharmacy and Vice-President of IPA Mysuru, Dr. Nisar Ahmed, Principal of Farooqia College of Pharmacy,

Dr. Hanumanthachar, Principal of Sarada Vilas College of Pharmacy, Dr. B.M.  Gurupadayya, Treasurer, IPA Mysuru, Dr. R.S. Chandan, Hon. Secretary, IPA Mysuru, lecturers Dr. S. Meghana and Dr. S. Preethi were present on the occasion.

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