TAC member suggests compulsory RT-PCR tests for those travelling to Karnataka from high-risk states

The Technical Advisory Committee's Chairman Dr MK Sudarshan said these aspects related to Covid containment and surveillance are yet to be discussed

Against the backdrop of mandatory tests for all arrivals from Kerala, a Covid-19 Technical Advisory Committee member in Karnataka has suggested compulsory RT-PCR tests for those coming from high-risk states, seven-day home quarantine for all, and a mandatory RT-PCR test once every 15 days for those who work in catering companies and serve food.

Another Covid-19 TAC member said these recommendations are yet to be finalised.

Dr CN Manjunath, a TAC member said, "An order pertaining to Kerala has already been issued. But in Maharashtra also, cases are rising. So obviously, the same model has to be applied to other high-risk states. It also makes sense to test caterers in the current scenario."

"I will definitely pitch it to the state TAC. Many marriages and social functions are going on, and caterers go from place to place. They mostly work in basements. Choultries are mostly in the basement where ventilation is less. If anyone of them has the virus, they can spread it to many. Catering service has improved compared to what it was four to five months back," he said.

"These people should be screened for Covid-19 at least once in two weeks. The atmosphere they work in is conducive for the spread of the virus. The fact that the dining hall is always in the basement doesn't help. They go downstairs repeatedly for serving the food," he said.

All marriage halls are completely full now, pushing the state to put an upper limit of only 500 on social gatherings.

The TAC's Chairman Dr MK Sudarshan said these aspects related to Covid containment and surveillance are yet to be discussed and that the next meeting is yet to be scheduled.

Health Commissioner Dr Trilok Chandra said, "This is on our agenda. We will be discussing this on February 20 or 21. A circular to this effect should be issued shortly."