Coronavirus: Health Minister Briefs Rajya Sabha About India's Preparedness; Says 'No Need To Panic'

Health Minister asked people to avoid travelling to the countries affected by the COVID-19 virus. He also said that the current travel advisories are under review.

Image: ANI

New Delhi: Union Health Minister Dr. Harsh Vardhan on Thursday briefed the upper house of the Parliament about Coronavirus outbreak and confirmed 29 positive cases in the country. Making a statement on the preparedness of India, he said that people do not need to panic. He said that India had initiated required preparedness since January 17, much before the advice of the World Health Organisation (WHO). Health Minister asked people to avoid travelling to the countries affected by the COVID-19 virus. He also said that the current travel advisories are under review. “I am daily reviewing the situation. A Group of Ministers is also monitoring the situation,” Vardhan said. He informed that more than 9,200 calls have been attended on helpline, issued for coronavirus. Speaking about the screening of passengers, the Health Minister said that self-declaration forms mandatory for all passengers arriving from abroad. Harsh Vardhan says all arriving from abroad, including UN officials and others exempted from visa restrictions, will also undergo airport screening. He said: “As on 4th March, a total of 28529 persons were brought under community surveillance and are being monitored.” Also Watch: So far 29 cases of coronavirus have been detected across India. Significantly, as a precautionary measure, people have been asked to maintain cleanliness, wash hands frequently and use hand sanitizers. Coronavirus cases were first reported in India in Kerala. In view of the increasing impact of coronavirus, the Central and State governments have been exhorting people to take precautions. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah have also cancelled their public functions, including Holi Milan celebrations due to coronavirus scare.