Get cracking, Covid is still plaguing us

The pandemic is far from over. After two years, the world is finding ways to live and function, while accepting the realities of Covid-19. The relaxation of Covid protocols following the Omicron wave is fuelling the current surge in cases. In this context, Narendra Modi's push to chief ministers to remain alert and step up efforts is welcome.

There is a need to step up compliance to Covid protocols, especially as the recent rise in cases is taking place despite a robust rollout of the vaccination programme. The XE variant transmits rapidly and easily. Which is why practical measures to contain the spread of infections - however 'milder' the variant may be compared to earlier ones - are needed. This includes reinstating the mask mandate, especially in states seeing a rapid rise in numbers. The suggestion to step up the pace of vaccination of adolescents by conducting special programmes in schools is something that states should act on, especially as the expert group is considering expanding the threshold to include 5-12-year-olds.

The Centre, on its part, needs to step up momentum and support for developing improved vaccines to counter new variants and providing better immunity, along with developing therapeutics for treatment. The other issue that GoI must deal with on a war footing is international recognition of its vaccines and vaccine protocols. This includes ensuring a robust 'booster' protocol, backed up with publication of efficacy studies. India, with its large and diverse population, can provide the necessary data for developing a better vaccine. There is no reason for it to miss this opportunity. The PM's call to let science define our response to the pandemic is spot on. Now, the governments need to heed that advice.