Keep The Festive Spirit Alive Cautiously

By Shreya Gupta +2 more

The season of festivals is around the corner and so is the chance of a possible festival induced surge of COVID-19 cases. Kartik is the month of festivals in India with Dussehra, Karva Chauth, Diwali and Chhath Puja celebrated back to back in various parts of the subcontinent. And for every festive celebration to be successful there needs to be people. But given the times, people signify mass gathering and that means spread of coronavirus infection. Like last year, we cannot let our guard down completely and we must celebrate cautiously. 

Has the Second Wave Receded?

As the second wave is yet to recede completely, one piece of good news is that more than 75% of India’s adult population has received the first jab and more than 31% has got both doses. Although this puts people out of danger in terms of a severe infection, it doesn’t make you completely immune to the risk of infection in spite of getting both your doses. In the month of August 14,421 persons contracted COVID-19 in spite of being fully vaccinated.

Given the circumstances, it is only responsible on our part if we understand the scenario and continue to follow COVID appropriate behaviour for the safety of one and all.

What is the SUTRA model and why is it important?

The SUTRA model is an acronym that stands for Susceptible, Undetected, Tested (Positive) and Removed Approach. It is a model based on mathematics and used by experts to predict the COVID graph in India. As per its initial findings, the model reported that India had well ‘past its peak’ in October 2020, meaning that India had achieved herd immunity. However, in April this year, experts found a number of flaws in the model:

  • The predictions were in variability to control government policy
  • The model was reliant on too many parameters.
  • It ignored the behaviours of the Coronavirus and its ability to mutate and become stronger. 

All in all, the SUTRA model is blamed for being instrumental in the idea that India was safe from a possible second wave.

However, with fresh COVID cases being reported in the states of West Bengal, Orissa and Assam post, it is only practical to follow all COVID appropriate behaviour. 

How to Keep Yourself and Your Loved Ones Protected

As COVID is very much present among us, we need to follow some important tips to ensure that our enjoyment is maximum and so are the safety measures.

  • Always maintain physical distancing when having guests over from outside even if they are vaccinated.
  • Use masks at all times. Try double masking if it helps.
  • When lighting diyas, candles, crackers do not make the mistake of sanitizing your hands. Sanitisers contain alcohol which makes them highly inflammable and can put you at risk of a fire hazard.
  • Get Vaccinated before venturing out into any public gathering.
  • Have a restricted guest list.
  • Look after your health – if you are experiencing cold and flu, stay home and rest.
  • If you are travelling, ensure to read about the travel rules of that place, carry a vaccination certificate, if possible your own food and water.

Conclusion

Times are still very much uncertain as we do not know how the virus might behave. Getting vaccinated does not make you invincible but only lowers the risk of a severe infection. Follow all COVID-19 protocols to ensure safety and happiness throughout this festive season. 

Disclaimer: The information included at this site is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional. Because of unique individual needs, the reader should consult their physician to determine the appropriateness of the information for the reader’s situation.

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Brijinder sikri

Very useful app.

Ashir Sahal

Thank you, glad you liked it.