As COVID-19 cases witness an uptick in Kerala, the state government has issued a fresh set of stringent guidelines aimed at bolstering healthcare preparedness and preventing a potential outbreak. As of June 4, 2025, Kerala has reported 1,416 active cases and nine COVID-related deaths since January.
Key Measures Introduced by the Kerala Health Department:
🔹 Statewide Hospital Mock Drills:
All government and private hospitals must conduct mock drills to assess their COVID-19 readiness. A centralized Google Form will be used to report compliance.
🔹 Updated Treatment Protocols:
Hospitals have been instructed to strictly follow the ABC Guidelines 03 (issued in June 2023) for the management of COVID-like and flu-like illnesses.
🔹 Enhanced Testing Measures:
Testing is now mandatory for patients with influenza-like symptoms or respiratory issues. High-risk individuals must wear masks and undergo RT-PCR testing if they test negative on rapid antigen kits.
🔹 Hospital Safety Protocols:
Hospitals are required to isolate symptomatic individuals, ensure universal mask-wearing for staff, patients, and visitors, and restrict unnecessary entry. Symptomatic bystanders will also be tested.
🔹 Infrastructure and Supply Readiness:
Healthcare facilities must confirm availability of oxygen supplies, PPE kits, ventilators, ICU beds, and essential medicines.
🔹 Intensified Genome Sequencing:
All RT-PCR positive samples will be sent to the National Institute of Virology in Pune. Districts must submit a minimum of 15 samples per week for sequencing to monitor virus variants.
These proactive steps reflect Kerala’s commitment to staying ahead of the curve amid a renewed public health challenge, ensuring both containment and clinical preparedness across all districts.
