JN.1 COVID19: Pune Municipal Corporation Takes Proactive Measures Amidst New Covid Variant, Appeals To Wear Mask

Pune, 20th December 2023: In response to the identification of the JN.1 subtype of the Covid-19 virus in Kerala, the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has taken swift action to ensure preparedness and vigilance against the evolving situation.

Municipal Commissioner Vikram Kumar reassured citizens that there is no need to fear the new variant. However, he emphasized the importance of taking necessary precautions to prevent the spread of Covid.

A health department meeting, chaired by Ravindra Binwade, Additional Municipal Commissioner, was convened on Tuesday, to address the concerns and reinforce Covid prevention measures in Pune.

The meeting focused on reviewing various aspects related to the recent identification of the Covid variant in Kerala, characterized by benign symptoms and the full recovery of a 79-year-old female patient. Emphasizing the importance of necessary precautions, officials reiterated the significance of adhering to Covid-appropriate behavior, including wearing masks, practicing frequent hand washing, and maintaining social distancing.

To date, no cases of the JN.1 variant have been reported in Pune city. However, authorities stressed the need for continued vigilance and adherence to preventive measures. All Municipal Corporation dispensaries and hospitals were promptly informed, with specific instructions issued to enhance the efficiency of patient surveys. Individuals identified in these surveys were directed to undergo Covid testing.

In alignment with the preparations, a comprehensive pre-Covid drill was conducted in Pune city, encompassing all Municipal Corporation dispensaries and private health institutions. The Mock Documentary, completed on December 17, aimed to evaluate the city’s readiness and response mechanisms.

Following the directives of the Government of India, mock drills were conducted between December 15 and 17, across tertiary-level health institutions in the Maharashtra state. Pune Municipal Corporation hospitals and private hospitals actively participated in these drills, assessing the availability of hospital beds, ICU facilities, equipment, oxygen, drug stock, manpower, training programs, and telemedicine facilities.