Omicron cases: Preventive measures must

The confirmed case of deadly Omicron, a new variant of Covid-19 in Jammu, the winter capital of Jammu and Kashmir, has brought the administration on toes as there is every possibility of spread of the virus in Jammu where the rush of people is high due to the winter season in Kashmir. Most of the people from Kashmir shift to Jammu during winter season to stay away from the bone-chilling cold here in Kashmir. However, amid the increasing rush of people in Jammu, the confirmed cases can lead to further spread of the new variant in the winter capital as the three persons, who have caught the virus have no travel history and could have possibly met dozens of people. The government has chaired a review meeting Wednesday in this regard to pass strict directions to the concerned authorities. The health department and others have been asked to gear up while the district administrations have been asked to ensure implementation of Covid Appropriate Behavior (CAB) in letter and spirit. It has also been said that any breach in the Covid protocols and other related issues would lead to the imposition of night curfew as well as the other restrictions. Therefore, there is a need to follow the guidelines of the health experts and ensure that there is no protocol breach. Besides, the government should also ensure that the spread of Omicron is prevented well on time and the preventive measures like face masks, social distancing and others are followed in spirit. Government action and the people’s support is must to defeat the virus.