European countries saw a six per cent increase in new cases this week over last week. The death toll has also risen by 12 per cent
Kochi: The state’s Kovid expert committee member said that the spread of the disease in European countries, especially among those who have been fully vaccinated, is a matter of concern for Kerala. This is because a category of cases currently being reported in the state is breakthrough infection.
In Germany, where 67.2 percent of people have been fully vaccinated, 50,000 new cases were reported on Thursday. This is the highest daily rate in the country. More than 35,000 people have been diagnosed with the disease this week in the UK, where Kovid was most severe in European countries.
European countries saw a six per cent increase in new cases this week over last week. The death toll has also risen by 12 per cent. The World Health Organization (WHO) says Europe is at a critical juncture and cases are likely to increase due to inadequacies in vaccination and relaxation of controls.
“The situation is worrying as Kerala is more similar to other European countries than any other state. What is happening there may have similar consequences here. The key question is why cases are on the rise in Europe. Is it because the effectiveness of the vaccine is declining? Now that it is winter there, people will engage more closely. The increase in cases may be due to such social interventions, of course, ”said Dr. Kovid, a member of the state Kovid expert committee. Aneesh TS said.
“The last Zero Prevention Survey found that antibodies were present in 82 per cent of the people in the state. This is a promising one. But it is not time to give up vigilance. The goal is to prevent further waves, ”he added.
In Kerala, 95.3 per cent of the eligible population received the first dose. 56.1 percent received both doses of the vaccine.
Breakthrough infection cases continue to increase in the state. Of the total cases reported on Thursday, 47 percent received two doses of the vaccine. 20% are first-dose injectors. 31% of people are not vaccinated. But it is reassuring that Kovid patients are less in need of oxygen and ICU beds. This is evidence that the vaccine provides protection against going into a critical condition.
From November 3 to 9, 74,976 cases were reported in the state. Of these, only 1.7 percent needed oxygen beds. The health department said 1.4 percent needed ICU help.
“Breakthrough infections are not serious. Mortality is also low. It is similar in European countries. Breakthrough infections are less common in other states of India. The risk of serious symptoms in such cases is also rare. This may be one reason. Second, natural infections are more common in other states. Therefore, immunity is non-infectious. Those who were once infected with the Delta variety will not be affected later, ”said Dr. Aneesh added.
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