Uttarakhand Government on High Alert: Health Department Fully Prepared Amid Rising COVID-19 Cases Nationwide

Press Release
May 26, 2025
Dehradun

Health Secretary urges citizens not to panic or believe in rumors; affirms government’s commitment to public safety

With a recent uptick in COVID-19 cases across the country, the Uttarakhand government has gone into proactive mode to ensure the state remains prepared for any eventuality. Dr. R. Rajesh Kumar, Secretary of Medical Health and Medical Education, convened a high-level meeting with senior health officials to review the state’s preparedness.

During the meeting, Dr. Kumar emphasized the importance of readiness at every level and instructed officials to leave no room for complacency. He asserted that all COVID-19 management systems in the state must remain fully functional and responsive.

The meeting was attended by key figures including Director General of Health Dr. Sunita Tamta, Director of Medical Education Dr. Ashutosh Sayana, Assistant Director Dr. Pankaj Singh, Dehradun CMO Dr. Manoj Sharma, and CMS of Doon Medical College Dr. R.S. Bisht.

“We Are Ready for Every Possible Challenge,” Says Health Secretary

Speaking on the current scenario, Dr. Kumar stated, “The Uttarakhand government is alert and closely monitoring the situation. While the situation within the state is currently under control, preparedness is our top priority. This is a time for vigilance—not fear.”

He further highlighted the government’s efforts to ensure every hospital, health center, and medical college is equipped with adequate resources including isolation beds, oxygen supplies, and trained personnel. Surveillance mechanisms are being strengthened, testing infrastructure is being bolstered, and rapid response teams have been put on standby.

Dr. Kumar also urged the public to refrain from believing in misinformation and instead adhere strictly to health advisories. “Wearing masks, maintaining hand hygiene, avoiding crowded areas, and consulting doctors if symptoms appear—these simple steps can go a long way in keeping everyone safe,” he added.

Hospitals and Medical Colleges Directed to Ensure Full Readiness

All government and private hospitals, along with medical colleges, have been instructed to ensure the availability of essential COVID-related facilities. This includes isolation beds, oxygen cylinders, concentrators, BiPAP machines, ventilators, ICU beds, oxygen generation plants, and necessary medications.

Enhanced Surveillance and Testing

District-level health units have been tasked with strengthening the surveillance of potential COVID-19 cases. Adequate supply of rapid test kits and RT-PCR kits across all testing centers has been mandated.

Mandatory reporting of ILI (Influenza-like Illness), SARI (Severe Acute Respiratory Infections), and COVID-19 cases will be enforced. All hospitals and labs must report daily case data through the Integrated Health Information Portal (IHIP).

Rapid Response Teams Fully Trained and On Alert

Under the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP), Rapid Response Teams have been retrained and placed on alert to address any unusual health developments. All symptomatic patients will be tested, and positive samples will be sent for Whole Genome Sequencing to monitor viral mutations.

Awareness Campaigns and Training Initiatives

All healthcare personnel will undergo refresher training for effective COVID-19 response. In parallel, a state-wide public awareness campaign will be launched to educate citizens on appropriate preventive behaviors. These campaigns will focus on “Dos and Don’ts” for COVID-19 safety.

The government has reiterated its full preparedness and appealed to citizens to remain calm, act responsibly, and avoid spreading or believing in rumors.

COVID-19 Precautionary Guidelines

DOs:

1. Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue or handkerchief while coughing or sneezing.
2. Avoid crowded places.
3. Wash hands frequently with soap and water.
4. Stay hydrated and consume a nutritious diet.
5. Seek medical advice if symptoms arise.
6. Maintain distance from others if you suspect infection.
7. Pay special attention to children, the elderly, and those with chronic illnesses.

DON’Ts:

1. Do not reuse tissues or handkerchiefs.
2. Avoid handshakes.
3. Stay away from symptomatic individuals.
4. Do not self-medicate without consulting a doctor.
5. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth repeatedly.
6. Do not spit in public places.