SHILLONG: 2 May 2023 (PTI Source)
Meghalaya has recorded its first COVID-19 death since 2022. The news was shared by Health Minister Ampareen Lyngdoh, who revealed that the victim was from the West Garo Hills district.
Lyngdoh has urged people to be cautious but not to panic, as the state has only 17 active cases at present, with 5 from East Khasi Hills, 10 from Garo Hills, and 2 from West Jaintia Hills districts. The numbers are currently under control, but the government is stressing the importance of following COVID-19 protocols to prevent the situation from getting worse.
Lyngdoh has also confirmed that the health department is implementing all necessary precautionary measures in light of this recent development. A meeting was held with the principal secretary and secretary of the Health Department to discuss the state's COVID preparedness.
The health minister also advised citizens who show symptoms of COVID-19 to immediately visit testing centres available at all block levels. Those who have travelled from areas with high positivity rates have been asked to take all necessary precautionary measures.
This tragic news is a stark reminder that the threat of COVID-19 is still very real. It is essential that everyone continues to take the necessary precautions to keep themselves and others safe. The government is working hard to prevent the situation from escalating, and with everyone's cooperation, we can emerge from this crisis stronger than ever.