Coronavirus BF.7 Omicron Variant Scare: In the wake of a rising number of COVID-19 cases in some countries, including China - where BF.7 Omicron sub-variant is driving the current surge of infections - Health Ministry has decided to conduct mock drills across the country to check the preparedness of health infrastructure. 

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According to sources, the mock drill is being done to check the availability of beds, ventilators, and oxygen in the hospital.

It is to be noted that the government has not made masks mandatory. However, officials have asked people to be alert and follow Covid appropriate protocol. 

The news comes a day Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired a high-level meeting to assess the COVID-19 situation in the country.

Apart from preparedness of health infrastructure and logistics, the Prime Minister also assessed the status of the vaccination campaign in the country. A comprehensive presentation was made regarding the global COVID-19 situation including the rising cases in countries by Secretary, Health and Member, NITI Aayog.

The Prime Minister was briefed that India has been witnessing a steady decline in cases with average daily cases falling to 153 and weekly positivity down to 0.14 per cent in the week ending December 22, 2022.

However, 5.9 lakh daily average cases have been reported globally since the last six weeks."PM cautioned against complacency and advised strict vigil. He reiterated that COVID is not over yet and directed officials to strengthen the ongoing surveillance measures, especially at international airports," a PMO release said.

The Prime Minister stressed the need to ensure that the entire COVID infrastructure at all levels is maintained at a high level of preparedness in terms of equipment, processes and human resources.