Team Herald
PANJIM: As two UK returnees’ tests came negative for the new variant genome of Sars-CoV-2 virus, the Goa government is awaiting the reports of 41 other positive patients – travellers and their contacts – from Pune’s National Institute of Virology for confirmation.
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Addressing media persons on Wednesday, Chief Minister Dr Pramod Sawant said that over 900 passengers had travelled from UK between December 9 and December 22, of which 37 tested positive for COVID-19.
In addition, 23 of their contacts also tested positive for the infection, taking the number to 60, he said adding that 43 samples were sent to NIV-Pune for confirmation of the mutant strain among the patients.
“We have received reports of two and both have tested negative for the new variant. The reports of 41 are awaited,” Sawant said.
The Chief Minister said the government is monitoring all the passengers who have arrived from the UK.
In India, 20 UK passengers have tested positive for the genome of Sars-CoV-2 virus. To prevent any fast spread of the mutated strain of coronavirus, the Central Government has extended the temporary suspension of flights from and to UK till January 7.
Meanwhile, the Chief Minister has urged hotels, pubs and others organising New Year’s eve parties to follow all COVID-19 norms and precautions to avoid any spread of infection. “Many tourists have come down to Goa to celebrate the New Year. Police are on duty to ensure that proper norms of social distancing, wearing of masks, are followed by the visitors,” he said.
“I appeal all those in Goa and Goans going out to celebrate the New Year, to take all necessary precautions and ensure safety of one and all,” he said.
Goa is currently witnessing an influx of domestic tourists, who have entered the coastal State to welcome New Year.
