Thiruvananthapuram, June 28 (BPNS)

The spike in Covid-19 cases continues in the state as Tuesday reported 4459 fresh infections. The last time more than 4000 cases got reported was on February 24. Of the new cases, Ernakulam and Thiruvananthapuram had more than 1000 cases – 1162 and 1081 respectively. The active case tally in the state stands at 27,991.

At the same time, the police department issued a circular to all district police chiefs to strictly implement the facemask usage and charge the violators under the provisions of the Disaster Management Act. The state in April had made mask-wearing compulsory in all public places, gatherings, workplaces and during transport.

Meanwhile, the union health secretary in a letter to states/union territories warned that some places are witnessing a sustained upswing in the cases currently. The letter highlighted that there is a need to enhance focus on the five-fold strategy of test-track-treat-vaccination and adherence to Covid-19 appropriate behavior.

The states were also asked to ensure adequate precautions during mass gatherings or yatras as such congregations may potentially facilitate the transmission of infectious diseases, including Covid-19.