MHA issues fresh Covid guidelines for states from December

In view of a spike in Coronavirus cases the central government on Wednesday asked states to step up measures to contain coronavirus cases especially in areas where a spike has been reported in recent weeks. In its fresh guidelines the MHA  suggested measures like stricter enforcement of containment zones, contact tracing and encouraging "covid-appropriate" behaviour. The fresh norms will be effective from December 1, 2020 and will remain in place till December 31.

The ministry has asked states and Union Territories to ensure demarcation of containment zones by the district authorities at the micro level. The guidelines also allowed states to impose local restrictions, including night curfews to prevent the spread of the coronavirus disease. The states, however, cannot impose any local lockdown, outside the containment zones, without prior consultation with the central government.  Covid-19 rules and containment measures prescribed by the health ministry strictly need to be demarcated containment zone. There shall be strict perimeter control to ensure that there is no movement of people in or out of these zones, except for medical emergencies and for maintaining supply of essential goods and services, the MHA said in statement.Surveillance teams will conduct intensive house-to-house surveillance and quick isolation of Covid-19 patients shall be ensured in treatment facilities or home, it added.

It has also told states to ensure social distancing in workplaces. “In cities, where the weekly Case Positivity Rate is in more than 10 percent, States and UTs concerned shall consider implementing staggered office timings and other suitable measures, with a view to reduce the number of employees attending office at the same time, thereby ensuring social distancing,” MHA said in a statement.