Centre asks states to boost preparedness as covid cases rise

The government has asked states and Union territories to ramp up healthcare preparedness and ensure availability of oxygen, ventilators, and essential medicines at hospitals while urging the public to follow covid-appropriate behaviour, as the viral infection begins to surge, officials aware of the matter said.

- PRIYANKA SHARMA

People are advised to practise hand hygiene, cough etiquette and avoid crowded places when unwell. Individuals with acute respiratory illness should self-monitor and seek medical care if symptoms worsen.