32 test positive for Covid in Bengaluru, Karnataka ups testing measures | Bengaluru News

Bengaluru: The state govt reported a slight uptick in Covid-19 cases over the past week, with 35 positive cases detected across the state, 32 of them in Bengaluru alone. Covid testing has been made mandatory for individuals with respiratory issues and all SARI (Severe Acute Respiratory Infection) cases.Health minister Dinesh Gundu Rao has directed officials to stock testing kits sufficient for a month. Around 5,000 RTPCR kits have been stocked in govt hospitals. Hospitals were also asked to test patients with cardiac or breathing-related conditions.Nationwide, 257 cases have been reported so far, the minister stated. Most positive cases showed only mild symptoms, and no severe complications were reported. He said, “There is no need for panic and the situation is under control. We are taking all precautionary steps and coordinating with the central govt.”He advised pregnant women and new mothers to wear masks in crowded areas, but clarified that masks are not yet mandatory for general public.He urged citizens to maintain hygiene and use hand sanitisers, adding that normal life can continue without restrictions.