Sample crunch stalls genome sequencing of Covid cases
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Ranchi: The state health department is yet to carry out a genome sequencing of the Covid 19 variant which has led to an uptick in cases in Jharkhand in the recent weeks due to lack of adequate collection of samples.
"The samples necessary for genome sequencing have not yet arrived," Dr Anupa Prasad, of the microbiology department of Rajendra Institute of Medical Sciences (Rims) said.
Health department officials said 27 samples were tested for Covid 19 on Wednesday in the district. Of them, seven returned positive, bringing the total number of active cases in the state to 16. Since May 24, a total of 432 samples were tested, with 31 cumulative positive cases reported.
According to experts, genome sequencing can be conducted with more than 75 samples. However, a match requires 96 samples for optimal processing and matching. Experts highlighted that genome sequencing is essential to track mutations in the virus, assess the nature and speed of transmission, and guide public health strategies, including vaccination and containment measures.
Ranchi civil Surgeon Dr Prabhat Kumar said, "Samples for genome sequencing can be sent to Rims, which is the designated centre for conducting genome analysis in the state.
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Health officials are collecting eligible samples, especially those from positive patients with unusual symptoms or severe illness. However, no plan has been made till now for genome sequencing."
Moreover, all district surveillance officers (DSOs) under the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP) in the state have been directed to ensure daily reporting of Covid 19, influenza-like illness (ILI), and severe acute respiratory illness (SARI) cases on the integrated health information portal.
The directive by the health department mandates both govt and private health facilities to input data on suspected and confirmed Covid 19 cases daily.
In addition to portal entry, districts are required to share the same data by 5 pm daily via the official IDSP Jharkhand WhatsApp group. Additional chief secretary (health) Ajoy Kumar Singh said, "All govt and private hospitals have been asked to enable timely trend analysis and ensure effective surveillance and response to emerging Covid 19 cases across the state."
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