In response to global coronavirus variations, a recent high-level meeting emphasized increased genome sequencing and global variant monitoring. India’s stable COVID-19 situation prompted Dr. P K Mishra, Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister, to stress ILI and SARI case tracking by states. This aligns with robust public health and sample testing, alongside genome sequencing expansion.
Health Secretary Sudhansh Pant presented newer SARS-CoV-2 variants like BA.2.86 (Pirola) and EG.5 (Eris) globally. WHO data reveals EG.5 in 50+ countries and BA.2.86 in four. India, with 17% global population share, reported 223 cases (0.075% of global count) recently.
India’s daily new cases average below 50, with a weekly test positivity rate under 0.2%. Genetic sequencing of circulating variants was also discussed. The high-level meeting reviewed global and national COVID-19 scenarios, variant impact, and public health concerns. Attendees included Dr. Vinod Paul, NITI Aayog; Cabinet Secretary Rajiv Gauba; fostering collaborative efforts.
India’s proactive genome sequencing, variant monitoring, and public health approach set a model. Coordinated by the government, medical experts, and science, it readies a vigilant response. This gathering paves the way for tackling evolving variants through global trend assessment, India’s status, and cooperative actions.