Amid a nationwide uptick in COVID-19 cases, the Uttarakhand government has heightened its health surveillance and preparedness despite currently having no active cases in the state. 

The move follows symptoms found in three individuals who recently returned from Gujarat, Karnataka, and Mumbai. Their COVID tests have now returned negative, according to an Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP) report reviewed by state health authorities, reported Dainik Bhaskar.

Health Secretary Dr. R. Rajesh Kumar has directed mandatory rapid antigen and RT-PCR testing for all patients showing COVID-like symptoms, emphasizing the importance of early detection. We cannot afford to be complacent. Every suspected case must be tested, and all facilities should be ready, Dr. Kumar stated.

The state’s health department has issued comprehensive instructions to both government and private hospitals. Facilities have been asked to ensure the availability of isolation beds, oxygen cylinders, concentrators, BiPAP machines, ICU beds, ventilators, and essential COVID-19 treatment drugs. Medical colleges are also expected to comply with these readiness measures.

District administrations have been tasked with strengthening surveillance, especially among patients reporting ILI (influenza-like illness) and SARI (severe acute respiratory infection). All such cases must be tested, tracked, and reported daily on the Integrated Health Information Platform (IHIP).

While the state currently reports zero active COVID-19 cases, health officials remain vigilant. Rapid and RT-PCR kits are being distributed across all testing centers, with mandatory case reporting protocols reinforced to ensure no resurgence goes undetected.

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