HYDERABAD: Unlocking procedures must be gradual and large social gatherings must not be allowed at any cost to keep the situation under control and to avoid the third wave, say experts. With cases declining in Telangana, 50 per cent beds are empty in government hospitals in districts with less than 50 new cases per day. The districts which are still seeing between 50 and 100 new cases per day have 30 per cent beds empty in government hospitals. There is a decline in mild, moderate and severe cases across the state.
Delta variant, according to sources, has infected one in four people in Telangana and there are now not many host bodies for the virus. But the adjoining states of Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka are still seeing new cases in high numbers.
Dr Kiran M, senior government doctor in Nizamabad explains, "Fever survey of the government has helped in identifying infected people early. This helped in early hospitalisation of severe cases in rural areas of the state. Lockdown has helped in bringing down cases. The decline means that there will be respite for two to three months."
Experts argue that unlocking must be carried out by the state gradually and entertainment sectors must not be opened up immediately.
Dr Narsinga Reddy, senior member of Indian Medical Association says, "Safety protocols have to be followed even after the decline in cases. It does not mean that the virus will go away. Due to the inappropriate behaviour of people and complete disregard to safety, there are new variants. People's behaviour will determine the nature of the third wave."
With the neighbouring states still recording a high number of new cases, interstate travel must be strictly monitored, say experts.
Movement of people for work, social and economic reasons will also allow movement of viruses which is also one of the reasons for emergence of new variants.
