Metro India News | AMARAVATI

Indications of a fresh wave of COVID-19 infections are emerging in Andhra Pradesh, with the recent confirmation of a positive case in Kadapa district raising alarm among health officials. In response, the state’s Medical and Health Department has issued a set of precautionary guidelines to curb further spread.

The new case involves a 75-year-old woman from Chagalamarri in Nandyal district, who was admitted to the Government RIMS Hospital in Kadapa after experiencing high fever. Subsequent medical tests confirmed she had contracted COVID-19. Hospital authorities stated that she has been moved to a dedicated COVID-19 ward and is currently receiving treatment under close medical supervision.

Reports suggest a gradual uptick in COVID-19 cases across the state. In light of this, the Health Department has stepped up its alert level and released critical public advisories. Citizens have been urged to postpone or avoid large gatherings including religious events, social functions, celebrations, and parties wherever possible. Officials stressed the importance of adhering to COVID-appropriate behavior, particularly in crowded public spaces such as railway stations, bus terminals, and airports. Wearing masks in such places has been made mandatory.

People exhibiting symptoms such as fever, cold, cough, severe fatigue, sore throat, loss of taste or smell, headache, body aches, nasal congestion or discharge, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea are advised to immediately visit the nearest health center and get tested. The government has directed all public hospitals to keep 24/7 laboratories operational and ensure adequate stocks of testing kits, masks, PPE kits, and triple-layer masks. Medical officers have been instructed to be fully prepared to handle any potential surge in cases.

The Health Department has appealed to the public to cooperate fully, follow personal hygiene practices, and strictly adhere to the government-issued guidelines to prevent another widespread outbreak. As the state faces the possibility of a COVID-19 resurgence, vigilance and community compliance are being emphasized as the first lines of defense.