Omicron variant three times more transmissible: Centre warns states

The Centre has told states that the Omicron variant of coronavirus, based on current scientific evidence, is at least three times more transmissible than the Delta strain, asking them to ensure prompt and focused action if there is any sign of a surge. 

The Union health ministry has noted said that 200 cases of Omicron have been detected in the country, so far, with Maharashtra and Delhi reporting the most -- 54 cases of the variant each. Of total Omicron cases in the country, 77 have been discharged or have recovered.

In a letter to state health departments, Health Secretary Rajesh Bhushan said that a close watch must be kept on districts where test positivity has been more than 10 per cent over the past week or where 40 per cent oxygen-supported or ICU beds are occupied.

“In case, any one of these parameters are met in any district, district-level containment measures and restrictions may be put in place forthwith. Equally important, the restrictions must be strictly enforced,” Bhushan said.

States have been advised to take containment measures and restrictions even before these thresholds are reached based on the local situation, keeping in mind the higher transmissibility of Omicron.

The health ministry has also said that at the district level, there should be a constant review of emerging data regarding the population affected by Covid-19, geographical spread, hospital infrastructure and its utilisation and manpower.

“Even greater foresight, data analysis, dynamic decision-making and strict and prompt containment action are required at the local and district levels. The decision-making at the state and district levels must be very prompt and focused,” Bhushan stated.

The health ministry has reiterated that states have to undertake the right proportion of RT-PCR tests in total tests being conducted daily and ensure contact tracing of all Covid-positive persons.

“Increase bed capacity, other logistics like ambulances, mechanism for seamless shifting of patients, availability and operational readiness of oxygen equipment, buffer stock of drugs to be ensured by prompt utilisation of Emergency Covid Response Package funds released by the central government,” the Centre told states.

A special focus has to be given to those districts where the first and second dose coverage of vaccination is less than the national average.