UP COVID tallies rise to a 7-month high with 3121 cases reported on Thursday

The COVID-19 threat intensified in Uttar Pradesh with a fresh load of 3121 cases piling onto the state tallies on Thursday. The figure reportedly marks the biggest-single day spike in UP since May 27, 2021, when 3178 fresh cases were reported here. While several districts have been under the infection whip, state capital Lucknow alone recorded 408 cases, up from 288 infections traced on Wednesday. Active caseload in Lucknow has exceeded the 1000 mark.

Active cases surge by 300% in Uttar Pradesh

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The alarming doubling rate of coronavirus cases in Uttar Pradesh has raised a health alert, hinting at the emergent onset of the 'third wave' here. Reportedly, the active caseload has surged by an enormous 300% spike since January 1, adding to the concerns. As of Wednesday, UP's active caseload stands at 5,198 patients, where only 51 have been declared recovered.

Amit Mohan Prasad, additional chief secretary, medical and health, said in a statement, "As many as 1,92,430 samples were tested in the past 24 hours. The test positivity rate has gone up but the need for hospitalisation among Covid positive cases is minimal as they have mild symptoms."

While assuring the public, the official further elaborated that "There is no need to panic but take adequate precaution. A new guideline has been issued on home isolation by the Government of India. It says 7 days of home isolation is required for patients."

Revised guidelines for school lockdown

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In a revised set of guidelines issued by the state on Wednesday night, the administration clarified that all schools, either government-run or private, will remain completely closed for all classes till January 16. Online classes will be initiated for students of Classes 11th and 12th. These students can be called to schools only for vaccination.

Additional restrictions have been imposed in Lucknow in wake of the active caseload rising over the 1000 mark. Places such as cinema halls, spas, banquet halls and restaurants will have to operate with 50 per cent capacity. Furthermore, all gyms, swimming pools and water parks have been completely shut in the city.

COVID-19 vaccination crosses the 13-crore mark in UP

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Meanwhile, the UP vaccination drive has crossed another milestone by administering over 13 crore COVID jabs as of Wednesday. Over 96% of the vaccination beneficiaries are in the 45-60 age group here, followed by an 84% coverage in the 18-45 and 60 plus age categories.

The state has also actively launched vaccination for those in the 15-18 age group from January 3, in line with Union orders. This has increased the scope of immunity in the state, against the rise of a fatal wave.