India recorded 1,260 fresh coronavirus cases on Saturday, 5 per cent lower than the previous day. In the last 24 hours, 83 deaths linked to Covid were recorded as India’s overall deaths – since the start of the pandemic – increased to 5,21,264.
India’s vaccination coverage has crossed 184.49 crore doses, more than 16 lakh vaccine doses were administered till 7pm Friday. In the 12-14 age group, nearly 2 crore vaccine doses have been given so far. The vaccination for the group began in March.
In the last few days, not more than 1,500 cases of norovirus have been reported daily. Many states, including Maharashtra and Delhi, have also done away with the mandatory requirement of wearing masks in public, making them optional. In mid-January, the daily tally of infections passed the 3-lakh mark.
Covid cases have been on a rise in China and some European countries, sparking concerns over a fourth wave in India. The country took a devastating hit during the second wave which nearly led to the collapse of the country’s health infrastructure. However, experts are “fairly confident” that no fourth wave will occur in the country.
