Omicron doesn't escape RT-PCR and RAT; ramp up testing: Centre tells states

International passengers from 'at risk' countries are being advised to prepare to wait at the airports till the report of the RT-PCR test has come, and not book connecting flights beforehand

Central government on Tuesday reviewed public health preparedness with states/UTs in view of new Covid variant (Omicron) reported by WHO.

Union Health Secretary Rajesh Bhushan chaired a high-level meeting with states/UTs amid reports of Omicron variant of Covid emerging across various countries, today in the presence of Dr V K Paul, Member (Health), NITI Aayog.

Bhushan advised states to not to let their guards down, and keep a strict vigil on the international passengers coming to the country through various airports, ports and land border crossings.

The meeting was attended by Rajiv Bansal, Secretary, MoCA, Balram Bhargava, Secretary (Health Research)