New Delhi/IBNS: Amid growing cases of Covid-19 in China, Prime Minister Narendra Modi while chairing a review meeting on the Covid-19 situation in the country Thursday urged people to wear masks though his government did not make it mandatory.

He also emphasized the need for increased surveillance with a focus on genome sequencing and increased testing for Covid-19.

There has been a concern after four cases of the virus variant playing havoc in China were detected in India.

While one of the cases surfaced back in July, the others were detected in September and November.

The government has said there is no need to panic.

PM Modi, however, cautioned against complacency, asking states to ensure the operational readiness of hospital infrastructure, including oxygen cylinders, PSA plants, ventilators, and human resources.

He reiterated that Covid is not over yet and directed officials to strengthen the ongoing surveillance measures, especially at international airports.

PM Modi stressed the need to ensure that the entire Covid infrastructure at all levels is maintained at a high level of preparedness in terms of equipment, processes and human resources.

The Prime Minister directed officials to ramp up testing and also genomic sequencing efforts. States have been asked to share a larger number of samples with the designated INSACOG Genome Sequencing Laboratories (lGSLs) for Genome Sequencing on a daily basis.

"This will support timely detection of newer variants, if any, circulating in the country and facilitate undertaking requisite public health measures," he said.

He urged everyone to follow Covid appropriate behaviour at all times, especially in view of the upcoming festive season, including wearing masks in crowded public places.

The Prime Minister also urged that precautionary dose may be encouraged especially for vulnerable and elderly groups.

The sub-variant of Omicron, the BF.7 does not cause severe illness, but it spreads much faster and can infect a huge number of people in a short time.

The recovery rate is high, but deaths in absolute numbers may be high if the spread is more than that of earlier variants.

The BF.7 strain mainly causes congestion in the upper chest and near the throat.

Fever, sore throat, runny nose, and cough are other common symptoms. Some people may get stomach-related symptoms like vomiting and diarrhoea.

Doctors advise that getting tested immediately is important as it can help stop the spread by ensuring early decisions on isolation and recovery drugs.