Health Minister Advises Elderly, Children And Those Unwell To Avoid Crowded Places And Events Like Ahmedabad’s Rath Yatra

Ahmedabad: Gujarat is currently experiencing a noticeable increase in COVID-19 cases. Although the number of fatalities remains relatively low, the infection rate has been rising steadily. As the city of Ahmedabad gears up for the upcoming Jagannath Rath Yatra, one of the state’s most significant and widely attended religious events, Health and Family Welfare Minister Rushikesh Patel has urged vulnerable groups to stay cautious.

Addressing the public, Patel recommended that individuals experiencing cold or cough symptoms, the elderly, and those with underlying health conditions refrain from attending large gatherings, including the Rath Yatra. “People with health concerns should avoid crowded areas and instead seek blessings from home through television broadcasts. There’s no need to take unnecessary risks,” he said.

Despite the rising numbers, Patel reassured the public that the current COVID-19 variant is not severe. “This is the fourth time we’ve seen a wave of rising cases since the virus first emerged globally, but there’s no cause for panic. We’re in continuous coordination with the central government,” he noted. He emphasized early treatment for anyone displaying symptoms such as cough, sore throat, or cold-like signs and advised them to quarantine and follow medical guidance to avoid further spread.

In the past 24 hours alone, Gujarat has reported 223 new COVID-19 cases, bringing the total number of active cases to 1,229. Of these, 23 individuals have been hospitalized while 105 have recovered and been discharged. Ahmedabad’s western zones are reporting the highest case numbers, with 237 in the west and 229 in the northwest. In response, the state health department is on high alert.

Patel reiterated that recent COVID-related deaths involved patients with comorbidities and stressed that those who are unwell should avoid public gatherings altogether. As preparations for the Rath Yatra continue, authorities are closely monitoring the situation, emphasizing precaution over participation for those at risk.