Kerala and Maharashtra accountable for more than 50% COVID cases in the country: Govt

More than half of the total COVID cases in the country alone are being reported from two states, Kerala (32%) and Maharashtra (21%), said Union Health Ministry, in a press briefing on Friday.

Health Ministry joint secretary Lav Agarwal also added that 14 districts in Kerala and 15 in Maharashtra are of concern. This comes amidst Kerala announcing more relaxations on COVID restrictions in the state, recently. The govt stressed on COVID norms not being flouted as the virus is still very much there.

“80% of new COVID cases in India are reported from 90 districts in 15 states and UTs, indicating need for focused attention in these areas. 66 districts across 17 states and UTs reported COVID positivity rate of more than 10% in week ending July 8,” Health Ministry said.

Expressing concern over rising crowds at tourist spots, Dr. VK Paul, Member of Health, Niti Aayog said, “We cannot lower our guard. A new risk is being seen at tourist spots where a gathering of crowds is being seen, social distancing & mask protocol is not being followed. This is a serious cause of concern.

ALSO READ: Kerala reports 13 cases of Zika Virus amidst fear of a third COVID wave