SHILLONG, Dec 12: While as many as 38 cases of the Omicron variant of COVID-19 being reported in the country, Meghalaya has also started preparing for an anticipated third wave.
A Health official on Sunday said though the Omicron variant may spread at a faster rate than the Delta variant, yet its impact may not be as severe as the latter.
The official also added that the state is in a comfortable position even if there is a third wave since most of the beds and ICU wards in different hospitals of the state are almost empty and enough beds are available for treatment of COVID patients.
As per data made available by the health department on December 11, the state has 1,055 empty beds, 942 oxygen-supported beds and 142 ICU beds.
Health Minister, James Sangma advised people not to let their guard down. “To let our guard down will not be prudent and we must continue to adhere to the protocols,” he said.
Stating that the central government is supporting the state to prepare for the possible third wave, the minister pointed out that SOPs have been set for preparation of infrastructure, supply of oxygen and activation of response units, etc.
The state on Sunday recorded 17 fresh cases of COVID-19 while no death was reported in the past 24 hours.
The active tally now stands at 223 while 82,998 people have recovered from the viral infection including eight on the day. The death toll remains at 1,476.
All 17 new cases were reported in East Khasi Hills.
