Manipur on Alert as Delhi Returnee Tests Positive for COVID-19: Variant Sequencing Underway
HEALTH
Imphal: A woman, having returned from Delhi, has tested positive for Covid-19 in Manipur, sparking concerns amidst the state’s ongoing struggles with violence. The Manipur health director, Dr. Kh Sasheekumar Mangang, revealed that the sample from the infected woman has been sent to the National Institute of Virology (NIV) in Pune for genome sequencing to identify potential variants.
Dr. Mangang assured that the infected woman, currently in stable condition, displayed no severe symptoms. However, he urged citizens to maintain caution and follow stringent precautionary measures akin to those during the pandemic’s peak. While awaiting results expected by Monday, he emphasized that even if the new variant JN.1 is detected, there’s no cause for alarm despite its higher transmissibility.
The woman’s travel path from Delhi to Paomata in Senapati, via Dimapur, raised concerns amid the recent surge of Covid-19 in various states.
To mitigate potential risks, the state government has implemented preventive measures at Imphal airport, conducting tests on passengers showing symptoms or arriving from affected areas.
Dr. Sumpi Percy, Chief Medical Officer of Senapati, reported that the infected woman had sought medical attention at Poamata Public Health Centre (PHC) exhibiting Covid-19 symptoms, including cough and a stuffy nose resembling typhoid fever. Initially treated and observed in isolation at the centre, she was discharged as her condition improved, remaining under home isolation since then.
“She is presently in good health but will continue home isolation for a week from Thursday,” stated Dr. Percy, underscoring the importance of her continued quarantine.
As Manipur navigates this recent Covid-19 case, health officials urge vigilance, adherence to Covid-appropriate behavior, and strict compliance with quarantine measures to curb potential spread in the community.