Kerala Private Hospitals step up COVID protocols amid rising cases

Thiruvananthapuram: In response to a recent surge in COVID-19 cases, private hospitals across Kerala have reactivated safety protocols, setting up dedicated wards and ICUs for COVID patients and implementing screening measures for symptomatic individuals, particularly those at high risk. 

Since May 6, the state has recorded approximately 1,400 new COVID-19 cases and seven deaths, with the latest being a 24-year-old woman with liver disease. On Sunday alone, Kerala reported 64 new infections and one death. Nationally, India has seen 3,758 cases and 28 deaths during the same period.

Medical Dialogues had previously reported that fresh COVID-19 cases have been reported from three states in India, with Kerala recording the highest number of infections so far this month. According to the latest data, Kerala, Gujarat, and Haryana have all confirmed new cases, but hospitalisation rates remain low as many patients exhibit only mild symptoms.

Also Read: Fresh COVID-19 cases reported in Kerala, Gujarat, Haryana

The resurgence is being primarily linked to the fast-spreading JN.1 Omicron sub-variants, especially LF.7 and NB.1.8, prompting heightened surveillance in the wake of similar surges in Southeast Asia in late April.

Sunny P. Orathel, medical superintendent at Rajagiri Hospital, Ernakulam, confirmed the reintroduction of patient segregation protocols. Speaking to TNIE, he explained, “We have designated rooms in each block and separate ICU cubicles for Covid patients. While COVID testing isn’t mandatory for fever cases, those who test positive but have no serious symptoms are sent home. Only patients with comorbidities who test positive are admitted to prevent complications.”

Symptoms being reported include sore throat, diarrhoea, high fever, and fatigue, though most cases are mild. Some hospitals have also started prescribing antiviral medications for symptomatic inpatients to manage complications early.

According to TNIE, “We screen all symptomatic patients, especially those with compromised immunity or other risk factors,” said Dr A Rajalakshmi, senior consultant at the department of infectious diseases, KIMSHEALTH, Thiruvananthapuram. “Fortunately, most cases are mild. We have designated areas and fully equipped ICUs to manage those needing hospital care.”

Also Read: Covid is not an emergency or alarming situation, says Delhi CM Gupta

Speaking to TNIE, Kerala Private Hospitals’ Association president Hussain Koya Thangal said while individual hospitals are following strict protocols in high-spread zones, the government has not issued any no new directive. “Hospitals are adhering to standard operating procedures already in place,” he said.

Dr P S Shajahan, professor of pulmonary medicine at the Government T D Medical College in Alappuzha, clarified that the current variant is categorised as a “variant of interest”, not a “variant of concern”.

In response, the state health department has issued advisories to:

• Reinstate mask mandates in hospitals

• Ensure adequate stock of test kits

• Re-emphasize basic hygiene and screening protocols

The current COVID-19 variant is associated with a range of symptoms, many of which overlap with those of seasonal flu and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV). Common symptoms include fever, runny nose, nasal congestion, sore throat, headache, and muscle aches. Individuals may also experience severe fatigue, diarrhoea or stomach upset, nausea, and loss of appetite. In some cases, yellowing of the eyes has been reported, which could indicate liver involvement.

Due to the similarity of these symptoms with other respiratory illnesses, accurate testing and timely medical attention are essential for proper diagnosis and treatment.