Covid 19: Passengers arriving from China, other countries to undergo random sampling at airports

New Delhi, December 21: Amid concerns over a sharp rise in Covid cases in China, official sources on Wednesday said random sample testing for Covid 19 would be conducted at airports for international passengers arriving from China and other countries.

Earlier in the day, a meeting was chaired by Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya to review the Covid situation in India.

Notably, three cases of Omicron subvariant BF.7, the strain behind China's current surge of Covid cases, have been detected in India so far. Gujarat Biotechnology Research Centre had detected the first case of Omicron subvariant (BF.7) in India. While two cases of this variant have been reported from Gujarat, one has surfaced from Odisha so far.

Also Read |  Covid: Omicron subvariant BF.7 behind surge in China; 3 cases in India so far

Sources said random sample testing would be done for international passengers arriving from various countries, especially China.

Mandaviya said Covid-19 was not over yet. "I have directed all concerned to be alert and strengthen surveillance. We are prepared to manage any situation."   

Also Read | Stay alert and wear mask in crowded spaces, indoors or outdoors, says Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya after Covid review meeting

Health experts have advised the public to wear masks in crowded areas, especially those with comorbidities and elderly should especially adhere to this.