Govt directs all entrants to the state from UK to undergo RT-PCR test

SHILLONG, DEC 23: The state government has asked all entrants to the state or transited through the United Kingdom (UK) in the past four weeks, to declare their travel history and undergo RT-PCR test.

The direction came in the wake of a new variant of SARS- CoV-2 virus detected in the UK, which is estimated to be more transmissible and affecting younger population.

“In view thereof, all entrants to the State from or transited through UK in the past 4 weeks (from 25th November to 23 rd December 2020) are required to declare their travel history (of past 14 days) to the Surveillance Units in the State and at the Districts and undergo RT-PCR test,” Commissioner & Secretary in-charge health department, Sampath Kumar said in a statement issued on Wednesday.

“All those (who have) tested positive shall be isolated in an institutional isolation facility in a separate (isolation) unit coordinated by the state health authorities. Those who are found negative on testing with RT-PCR are to undergo 7 days of institutional quarantine followed by another 7 days of home quarantine, monitored by the IDSP/District Surveillance Officers,” he said.

“All those who have entered the State from UK in the past 4 weeks (from 25 th November to 23 rd December 2020) are requested to self-monitor for development of symptoms suggestive of COVID-19 i.e. Fever, Cough, Difficulty in breathing for 28 days from the date of arrival from UK. In case of development of symptoms (fever, cough, difficulty in breathing), put on a mask immediately, isolate oneself at home and inform the District Surveillance Officer or contact State Helpline 108…,” he said.

In view of the new SARS-CoV-2 virus being detected, the senior government official said it is important to exercise extra caution as he urged the residents to strictly adhere to the advisories.

“Always wear a mask covering your nose and mouth when you are in close proximity with someone, especially while speaking, singing and praying. This will prevent infection and contamination through droplets.

Maintain physical distance at all times in public and personal spaces including at home, workplace, religious gatherings or while travelling in public or private transport.

Follow all the public health measures of infection prevention and control laid down by the State Government,” he said.

By Our Reporter