Assam: Himanta hints extension of lockdown in Guwahati by 1 week, official announcement tomorrow

Keeping in view the recent trend of COVID-19 cases in Guwahati, Assam Health Minister Himanta Sarma on July 11^th, 2020 hinted extension of lockdown in the city by one more week. He informed that the recommendation for the lockdown has been sent to the Chief Secretary to the Government of Assam. The official declaration will be out on July 12^th, 2020.

Addressing a press conference here in Guwahati, the minister claimed a decrease in COVID-19 cases in the city after the lockdown was enforced. He, however, stated that ‘COVID is very active in the city.’

While talking about the rapid antigen tests that was launched in the city on June 15^th, 2020, the minister said, “A total of 96,686 people, which is 1/10^th of the total population, have been covered in the exercise to date.”

Also read: Assam records spike of 936 COVID-19 cases in last 24 hours

Besides, the minister claimed that the  people of the city can rely on the rapid antigen tests as the false report is just 2 percent. He also informed that two more COVID-19 care centre are being set in Guwahati in a bid to strengthen the infrastructure.

Talking about the home quarantine issue for the non-symptomatic people, the minister said the government can allow people for home quarantine on certain conditions set for the greater interest of the elder people.

“No neighbourhood should oppose the home quarantine decision, if there is no elderly person and co-morbid patient at home, the person has to buy pulse pulse oximeter and keep consulting with his or her private doctor regularly and arrange a driver and a vehicle to go to hospital if any emergency happens. If the patient can sign an agreement on these condition they he or she will be allowed for home quarantine,” the minister added.

“I am trying to protect the senior citizens. That cannot be an offence. Some political leaders are trying to politicise it,” he added.

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