The Government Monday informed that 10 new positive cases of novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) have been reported today which include three from Jammu division and seven from Kashmir division thus taking the total number of positive cases in Jammu and Kashmir to 48.According to the daily Media Bulletin on novel coronavirus (COVID-19), out of 48 positive cases 44 are Active Positive, 02 have recovered and 02 have died.Till date 11644 travellers and persons in contact with suspected cases have been put under surveillance which also include 355 persons who are in Hospital Isolation and Hospital Quarantine.The Bulletin further said that 722 samples have been sent for testing of which 659 have tested as negative and 15 reports are awaited till March 30, 2020.Meanwhile, in case of any emergency people can avail free ambulance services 24x7 at their door steps by calling on toll free No. 108. Pregnant women and sick infants can avail free ambulance services by dialling toll free No. 102.Furthermore a 24x7 toll free national helpline number 1075 has been activated for support, guidance, and response to health related queries on novel coronavirus disease. The government of Jammu and Kashmir has also set up helpline numbers in this regard: 0191-2549676 (UT level Cell for J&K), 0191-2520982, 0191-2674444, 0191-2674115 (For Jammu Division), 0194-2440283 and 0194- 2430581 (For Kashmir Division).
According to the advisory, Globally, COVID-19 has impacted several lives and is steadily increasing its reach. “Government is taking necessary measures including imposition of lockdown to contain the spread of the virus to protect and safeguard the lives of people and it is therefore critical for each one of us to follow the advisories and take necessary precautions to break the chain of transmission of the disease,” the advisory read.People have been requested to stay indoors, strictly implement social distancing measures, disclose recent travel history to covid-19 affected countries / areas and report any contact with positive cases voluntarily.General public has been advised to avoid unnecessary visit to hospitals, in case anyone develops fever, cough and difficulty in breathing, seek medical advice promptly by calling on Covid-19 helpline numbers so that they can be provided correct medical advice and directed to the right health facility, if needed.“Public in general is therefore advised to avoid un-necessary travel & use of public transport; avoid crowded places and large gatherings, do not spit in public. People must take basic precautions for personal hygiene; frequent hand washing with soap & water; and observing coughing & sneezing etiquettes,” the Government advisory added.The Advisory urged people to rely only on the information released by the government in this regard through the daily media bulletin to print & electronic media. Furthermore, people are advised to refrain from spreading rumours and pay no heed to them at the same time.