Two more UK returnees test COVID-positive in Telangana

So far, 18 UK returnee have tested positive for the virus and the health department has identified 937 passengers who have been tested for COVID-19.

"We are collecting details of passengers who have returned from the UK and are examining their health condition. Since 9 December, a total 1,216 people have come to Telangana from the UK. We have identified 937 UK returnees and tested them for COVID-19. Two tested positive today. Both are from Malkajgiri district," said G. Srinivas Rao, the director of public health, Telangana.

Among those who tested positive, four are from Hyderabad, six from Medchal Malkajgiri district, two from Jagityal district, one each from Mancherial, Nalgonda, Rangareddy, Sangareddy, Siddipet, and Warangal Urban districts.

"Eighteen people have been kept in special wards in various hospitals. We have identified 18 out of 79 people who were hypersensitive and placed them in quarantine and examined their health condition," added Dr. Rao.

Samples of all those who tested positive were sent to CCMB for genome sequencing to identify the virus. The results will come in another two days.

Among the UK returnees, 92 were from other states. "We have provided information to the respective states. We do not have comprehensive details about the other 184 passengers. Their addresses and phone numbers are incorrect. We are trying to trace them all," said Dr. Rao.

The state health department has requested those who have come directly to the state from the UK after 9 December or have travelled through the UK to provide their details by calling 040-24651119 or WhatsApp to 9154170960. The health staff will visit their homes and perform medical tests.

The Telangana health department is on high alert following the detection of a new strain of coronavirus. The department said it is adopting the trace, test, and treat method to prevent the spread of the virus.

The health official also said, "With the help of the government and the people, we have been able to control the spread of the virus and the number of deaths. We urge people to cooperate even in the future. People who have contracted the new type of virus need not worry but we urge them to stay vigilant. Wear masks, follow physical distance, and wash your hands regularly."