Sudhakar warns of second wave, calls for cancellation of NY celebrations

Bengaluru: "There are all possibilities of a second Covid wave during initial months of 2021 and we have to be extra cautious from December 20 to January 2. These 15 days are going to be very crucial," said Health and Medical Education Minister Dr K.Sudhakar.

He was speaking to media persons after a Covid meeting with members of the Technical Advisory Committee here at Vidhana Soudha on Friday.

"Winter months of December, January and February are conducive for spread of the virus. Next 45 days are crucial for containing the virus," the minister cautioned. As per the record of other countries it is observed that second wave occurred between 45-90 days of the receding of initial wave. According to the Technical advisory Committee report, there are all possibilities of a second wave in the State too. Detailed discussion has been done in the meeting regarding precautionary measures to be taken during this period," said Dr Sudhakar.

He stated that public gathering during these 15 days must be handled with utmost precaution.

The minister directed officials to ensure that guests at marriage functions should not exceed 100 and 200 at religious and political events. "Apart from this, use of masks, social distancing and other guidelines should be meticulously followed," Dr Sudhakar said.

He remarked that celebrating 'New Year when there are loss of lives is meaning'.

"New Year is not a festival for Indians. There is no meaning in celebrations when there is loss of lives and livelihoods in the society. It is meaningless to celebrate New Year at this juncture. People should be sensible and follow the guidelines, " he added.