There has been a sudden rise in Covid-19 cases.  On an average, six Covid positive cases have emerged in the steel city in the past fortnight, most of them having travel history. Active cases have shot up to 41.

“Last year too, the cases resurfaced after the festive season. We need to be careful to ensure that the third wave is avoided. We need to be careful in the coming days because of the New Year. We should continue to avoid crowding, wear masks and follow social distancing. This will reduce the chances of spread of the virus,” said an official of the health department.

At present, Ranchi and East Singhbhum are two districts that had most of the active cases. According to experts, people from across the state and even outside visit Ranchi and Jamshedpur in large numbers, making these two cities vulnerable to Covid-19 infection.

As part of its strategy to combat the threat of further spread of coronavirus, the district administration has also stepped up checking of those entering the city. In view of the importance of the Dobo-Kanderbera road linking to the steel city through Domuhani Bridge, vehicular movement through that stretch has increased considerably.

“The trend of the virus is on the decline but we need to be careful during the festive season. Any kind of environmental pollution could be hazardous for Covid patients who have residual symptoms along with breathing difficulties. With Diwali round the corner, bursting of crackers will add more suspended particulate matter to the atmosphere and could severely affect patients with lung diseases,” said an

official.

The administration has also announced launching of Covid sample collection at the entry points after a spike in the number of Coronavirus positive cases in the steel city. Over 60 percent of positive cases have travel history -- travelling either by trains or by road.

The entry points where the Covid sample test is to begin shortly include Tiring checking post bordering Odisha, Baharagora checking point, Pardih Chowk on NH-33 and near Kharkai bridge in Bistupur.

“ We are keeping an eye on crowding during the festive season. The slight decline in daily cases in the last few days should not be taken as the end of the virus. Forget about a third wave, the first wave would not be over,” he said.