Mandatory RT-PCR tests of UK passengers

Jalandhar: Deputy Commissioner Ghanshyam Thori on Tuesday asked the officials to conduct mandatory RT-PCR tests of passengers returning from the United Kingdom (UK) in the wake of a new virus strain there. The DC said that the district administration has received a health advisory from the Secretary National Health Mission, Rajesh Bhushan, which invokes some immediate measures to check the spread. The DC said these steps include compulsory RT-PCR testing of every passenger returning from the UK adding everyone tested positive has to undergo treatment in the institutional facilities. However, passengers found negative have to undergo a seven-day strict home isolation to keep the spread under check. The DC further asked the authorities to set up an action plan to monitor the health costs of passengers placed under home quarantine and ensure follow-up RT-PCR testing of such persons. He said that in case of development of symptoms during isolation period, such cases must be reported immediately to the higher authorities. “No laxity would be tolerated and stern action would be taken against the erring staff,” he added. TNS