New Delhi: Raising concerns over the slow decline in fresh Coronavirus cases in the country, the Union Health Ministry today admitted that third wave is looming large and next few days will be crucial in its arrival or containment.
Issuing a warning signal, it said that that next 100 to 125 days are critical for India in its fight against COVID-19.
“Fall in cases has slowed down. It’s a warning signal. Next 100 to 125 days are critical for fight against COVID in India,” says Dr VK Paul, Member-Health, Niti Aayog in a Health Ministry press conference.
Mr Paul also shared a study by ICMR which analysed the vaccine efficacy in police personnel, a high-risk category. According to study, 2 doses of vaccine showed effectiveness of about 95% in preventing deaths.
“One dose of vaccine was able to reduce the mortality rate by 82 per cent. Two doses of vaccine were successful in preventing 95 per cent of deaths due to COVID-19 during the second wave,” he said.
“We are moving towards a set target to administer 50 crore doses before July. We are on the path to achieving it. Govt has ordered 66 crore doses of Covishield and Covaxin. Additionally, 22 crore doses will go to the private sector,” he added.
Joint Secretary Lav Agarwal said, “Analysis shows a projected decline in the use of face masks as we resume activities. We should incorporate the use of face masks in our lives as a new normal.”
Fresh cases in the country continue to show a decline during the second wave, said Agarwal.
“Average daily new cases declined from 3,87,029 cases between May 5-11 to 40,336 cases between July 14-July 16,” the Joint Secretary said.
