COVID-19 cases in Meghalaya will "definitely keep increasing": health minister Al Hek

Guwahati: Al Hek, the health minister of Meghalaya today predicted that the number of COVID-19 cases in the Northeast Indian state will "definitely keep increasing".

"The experts such as scientists, doctors, etc, have predicted that the number of COVID-19 patients will continue spiking upwards. They cannot tell by exactly how much the cases will increase, but a spike has been predicted. The information has been relayed to the various Government agencies. We are hoping for the best until a vaccine to curb this virus is made available. However, we have to be prepared for any eventuality", Hek told The Sentinel Digital.

The health minister also stated that the Government is working hand-in-hand with civilians in anti-COVID Meghalayan efforts. "Random testings have been kickstarted with rapid antigen kits. We have 7,000 COVID-19 management committees who assist the health department carry out this enormous task. They will identify the contacts and will also look after every aspect in the process apart from the technical ones, which will be looked after by a team of experts", he added.

It needs mention here that the Meghalaya government has decided to go for random testings in 71 clusters all over the state where the incidence of COVID-19 cases is the highest. This decision was taken after the Meghalaya Government recognized as many as 71 areas across the state as "COVID-19 clusters." The number of cases across Meghalaya has also been rising rapidly in this new wave of COVID-19 infections.

"Meghalaya Government has decided to initiate public random testing in 71 Clusters identified by the Health Department covering the entire state. Our 7000 Covid-19 Management Committees will assist the Dept. in this exercise at the local level", Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma informed via a tweet.

Also Watch: #NewsMakers: Exclusive chat with Kenny Basumatary, Actor & Director with Oineetom Ojah