Indian ministers urge caution amid Omicron fears

Delhi Health Minister Satyendra Jain has said there is a need to stop international flights because of rising cases of the Covid-19 Omicron variant. He alleged that similar negligence was seen in the second wave as well.

"The new variant is coming from abroad. There is a need to stop the flights coming from abroad. Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has also made this appeal. The same negligence was seen during the last wave as well," said Jain in a press conference.

"All international travellers from affected nations being tested. 27 have been brought to Lok Nayak Jai Prakash Narayan Hospital so far, 17 have tested positive, and 10 are their close contacts. Genome sequencing of 12 out of 17 people done and 1 of them has been detected to have Omicron," he said while talking about the first case of Omicron in Delhi.
"The condition of the one who is Omicron positive is fine as of now. The report of his second test done for confirmation had also come positive," he added.

"We endeavour to prevent the spread of Omicron in any way through those coming from the airport," he further stated.
Earlier on December 5, Delhi reported its first case of new Covid-19 Variant Omicron. A Tanzania returnee had tested positive.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, on December 6, has appealed to the people to be cautious and wear masks while stepping out of their houses.

"I want to appeal to people not to panic. I am monitoring the situation. I chaired a review meeting last week also. We will make all available resources like beds, medicines, equipment to tackle the virus. I want to appeal to the citizens to wear masks always while stepping out," he said. Earlier on Sunday, Delhi reported its first case of the Covid variant Omicron.

(ANI)