Udupi: District In-charge Secretary Dr M T Reju said a seal should be stamped on the hands of Covid positive people, who are in home isolation, to discourage them from roaming around and infecting others.

Presiding over a district-level review meeting held on Thursday, Reju directed officials to take stock of Covid situation in district. He said that people in home isolation should be confined to their houses. The cases are increasing because these people are coming out and spreading infection to healthy people. The administration should put the seal on their hands, so that they are identified immediately when they step out of their houses, he added.

The violations of Covid norms should be dealt strictly, he said and directed officials to ensure speedy results of tests conducted. Swab samples collected in rural areas should be sent for testing immediately for quick results. The cases are increasing in rural areas.

Reju directed deputy commissioner to take necessary steps to contain the spread of Covid-19 in villages.

Dr Reju promised to increase the quota of oxygen offered to Udupi district. The available oxygen should be used judiciously. It should not be wasted. He also reviewed the facilities offered in district government hospital such as beds, availability of oxygen and other healthcare facilities.

He urged health workers and frontline workers to work towards ensuring zero Covid cases in the district.