Surge in cases in 4 dists cause for major concern

Four districts in the state — Khammam, Karimnagar, Nalgonda and Bhadradri Kothagudem — are witnessing a surge in cases despite a decline in other parts of the state. These four districts cause a concern as new infections are high.

New cases reported from Bhadradri Kothagudem are 767, Karimnagar 777, Khammam 966 and Nalgonda 1091 in the last seven days. This leads to serious concern as these are major districts for economic activity in the monsoon season. Khammam is a border town with Andhra Pradesh and the rising numbers in this district will require proper control measures, according to experts.

With the onset of monsoon, there will be movement of workers from different districts and also interstate travel. So, it is utmost important for the population to be vaccinated before this movement begins. A senior health official says, “Once the high-risk group of 7 lakh people are vaccinated, the government will have to concentrate on farm labourers as they move to different parts for work. Monsoon has set in early and they will move out for work for their livelihood. They will need protection.”

With the rural areas being infected in large numbers during the second wave, unlocking will require that they follow safety protocols of masks and social distancing in the mandi's, fertilizer shops and during procurement of seeds. These will be the new hotspots and they will need extra care and alertness in managing them.

Decline in urban areas of mild cases is noted but serious cases are still a challenge.