Deaths in China and New COVID cases in India: Are we ready for another lockdown?

China is at the centre of COVID spread again. A hospital in Shanghai has advised employees to get ready for a "tragic struggle" with COVID-19 as it anticipates that half of the city's 25 million residents will contract the virus by year's end as it spreads mostly unchecked throughout China.

A sudden rise of COVID cases in China, Brazil, the US, Japan and other countries has raised concern across the world to maintain safety precautions and maximum protective measures. Among all the other countries, China has recently made headlines due to the fresh eruption of fatal outcomes due to COVID. It is not over yet. According to a recent report in the Economist, China can witness approximately 1.5 million deaths based on recent counts.

Dr. Shikha Gulia, GM Medical Operations and Quality, Paras Hospitals, Gurugram says, “Amidst the sudden spike, we are requesting people to wear masks and avoid entering closely packed locations or gatherings. Avoiding international travel or getting in touch with someone who has recently been back from a foreign country is an important precautionary measure to be taken. Domestic movement and public transport should be used only if required.”

Dr. Arunesh Kumar, HOD & Senior Consultant, Pulmonology, Paras Hospitals, Gurugram says, "We are not expecting a new wave but we are expecting new patients with new respiratory symptoms who will be affected by the new variant. I think we are better prepared this time and there are no or very less chances of a new wave or lockdown measures this time."

"Above all, don't incite fear or spread rumors; they'll do more harm than good. If your child or anyone in the family is sick, see a doctor immediately. Do not self-medicate or use medication you do not require. In most cases, the present strain of COVID merely causes minimal symptoms that can be treated with paracetamol. While following COVID regimens, a well-balanced diet, proper sleep, and regular exercise are all beneficial to your general health and well-being," added Dr. Kumar

Many COVID-19 infected patients are fully unaware of their infection. Approximately 40% of COVID-19-infected people are asymptomatic, although they can still transfer the virus to others. Universal mask use can dramatically reduce virus transmission in society by significant reduction of viral transmission the virus to others, including those who are unwittingly carrying it. COVID-19 vaccinations, as well as masking, physical separation, handwashing, and staying at home when unwell, goes a long way in reducing new infections. When these efforts are combined with good ventilation, testing/screening, and contact tracking in the school community, the results are far better.

According to DR V.K Pauls’ (Member- Niti Aayog) speech, only 27-28% of people have taken the booster dose. The government and even the healthcare sector are focusing on the need to wear masks and take the booster dose to avoid witnessing severe outcomes like in China.

According to official sources, random samples of international travellers travelling from China and other countries will be tested at airports. Since COVID instances have suddenly increased in China and some other nations, states are urged to ensure that individuals wear masks, use hand sanitizer, maintain social distancing, and increase knowledge of prophylactic measures after the holiday and new year seasons.