SHILLONG:
After a lull, the state on Thursday registered two Covid-19 deaths and the deceased were reported to be from West Khasi Hills.
The number of new cases was 61 as on Thursday. West Garo Hills registered 36 new cases; East Garo Hills and West Khasi Hills, two each; East Jaintia Hills, one; , East Khasi Hills, 12; Ri Bhoi, 5 and South Garo Hills, 3.
The number of recoveries was 20. The number of active cases is 397.
Speaking to The Meghalayan, Principal Secretary Health Department, Sampath Kumar said, “We need to understand that Covid virus is still there. We have to take the vaccine and there is no short-cut.”
With general elections round the corner and numerous meetings also being held, he said that meeting in open spaces would not be a problem as opposed to closed-door meetings as proper ventilation is crucial.
The state on Wednesday reported 102 cases forcing the East Khasi Hills district administration to sound an alert and ask citizens to use masks at all times besides other appropriate behaviour.
Cabinet minister Lahkmen Rymbui had said that the government was keeping a close watch on the sudden spike.
He, however, ruled out the possibility of any blanket order for closure of schools in the state.
Seeing the sudden surge of fresh cases in the state, the East Khasi Hills district administration asked the citizens of the district to strictly adhere to Covid-appropriate behaviour and use masks at all times.
A notification issued by the administration said that all eligible citizens are to avail the free precautionary dose. Besides, it said the special vaccination camps as part of the Covid Vaccination Amrit Mahotsav underway since July 15, will continue till September 30. The camps are being held at big office complexes (public and private), industrial establishments, interstate bus terminus and schools and colleges.