Goa has adopted a multi-thronged action against the spread of COVID-19 infection, mutations and the rising threat of the 'third wave' in the country. The government has ensured special provisions and infrastructure ahead of the possible surge, on the advice of a committee of experts. The Health Minister has also urged people to get vaccinated, remain vigilant and follow COVID-appropriate behaviour to close down the transmission avenue.

Pediatric intensive care to tackle COVID cases in children

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The Goa Chief Minister on Saturday informed that the state has prepared special pediatric intensive care and a neonatal intensive care unit, with trained staff to augment treatment facilities for children with COVID infection. As per reports, a special task force under the authority of the CM has also taken charge of purchasing required equipment, in a concurrent manner. On similar lines, private hospitals have also been directed to mobilise extra beds to ensure bed availability at a short notice.

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Besides, the state has also increased screening at the Goa-Maharashtra border amid the looming fear of the Delta plus COVID variant and the rising number of cases in the neighbouring state. The CM also visited the Keri border check post to surveil the mechanisms arranged by the North Goa district administration to streamline the entry of travelers into the state.

"Those who test positive are immediately sent to isolation centres. Only people who are COVID negative are allowed to proceed to their destination," the CM told reporters. Accordingly, private testing labs have been arranged at the borders for on-spot testing to properly implement this.

Active vaccination to prevent COVID

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Meanwhile, Goa's Health Minister encouraged people to get vaccinated in a bid to boost immunity across the coastal state. "As we anticipate the third wave, I would like to assure the citizens that we have all the medical infrastructure in place to tackle it. However, it still remains our duty to follow COVID-appropriate behaviour at all times. I also urge all the citizens to get themselves vaccinated," the minister said in a social media message.