No Active Cases in State Yet, But Preparations Underway
Shimla – In response to the rising number of COVID-19 cases in several parts of India, the Health Department of Himachal Pradesh has issued an alert and stepped up precautionary measures, despite the state currently reporting no active cases.
The National Health Mission (NHM), Himachal Pradesh, has directed all Chief Medical Officers (CMOs), medical college principals, and medical superintendents to enhance hospital preparedness. A formal advisory has been circulated instructing health facilities to remain fully equipped and vigilant.
To identify emerging variants, genome sequencing facilities have been established at the Mandi laboratory and, if needed, samples will also be sent to the National Institute of Virology (NIV) in Pune. Should any sample test positive, the information must be shared promptly with both district and state surveillance units.
Furthermore, all hospitals have been instructed to increase surveillance of Influenza-like Illnesses (ILI) and Severe Acute Respiratory Infections (SARI). Reporting of such cases, including confirmed COVID-19 and influenza infections, is to be done using the standard “L-form” on the designated portals.
Guidelines Issued for Public Safety
The Health Department has urged the public to remain cautious. Individuals experiencing symptoms similar to COVID-19—such as fever, cough, or cold—are advised to get tested at the nearest hospital. Even in mild cases resembling the common cold, people are being encouraged to take appropriate medications and use face masks as a preventive measure.
All health institutions have been instructed to enforce strict infection control practices, including mask-wearing and respiratory hygiene. Special training sessions are being organized for healthcare workers to efficiently manage ILI and SARI cases, ensuring a swift response in case of emergencies. Hospitals must also maintain adequate supplies of oxygen, ventilators, essential medicines, and equipment.
Nationwide Spike in COVID-19 Cases Triggers Concern
Over 1,000 Active Cases Reported Across the Country
As Himachal Pradesh gears up to prevent a possible outbreak, the rest of the country is witnessing a fresh spike in COVID-19 cases. According to official data, India has recorded over 1,000 active COVID-19 cases, with 752 new cases confirmed in recent days.
Kerala currently leads with 430 active cases, followed by Maharashtra (209), Delhi (104), Gujarat (83), Karnataka (47), Uttar Pradesh (15), and West Bengal (12). Notably, Delhi reported 99 new cases in the past week alone, reviving public anxiety over a possible resurgence of the virus.
However, several states—including Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Bihar, Himachal Pradesh, and Jammu & Kashmir—have so far remained free from active COVID-19 cases.
Given the situation, authorities at both the central and state levels are reinforcing surveillance, testing, and public health response strategies. The emphasis remains on early detection, timely reporting, and containment of any emerging variants through genome sequencing and epidemiological tracking.
While Himachal Pradesh has managed to remain COVID-free amid the current surge, the state’s health authorities are not taking any chances. With strict surveillance protocols, increased testing, and public health advisories in place, the state aims to stay ahead of the curve. Nationwide, however, the rise in active cases—particularly in urban centers—underscores the need for continued vigilance, responsible behavior, and readiness across all healthcare systems.
Munish Sood
