‘Encouraging to see India’s efforts being led by highest political leadership’

As COVID-19 cases increase across the globe, WHO south-east Asia regional director Poonam Khetrapal Singh says the risk is very high even in India and a shift in testing strategy will be needed. Asserting that testing and isolating is critical, Singh tells Sushmi Dey that it is encouraging to see India’s efforts being led by the highest political leadership. Excerpts:

Positive cases of COVID-19 are increasing rapidly. How serious is the situation in your view?

The risk of COVID-19 globally, including India, is very high. WHO is deeply concerned both by the alarming levels of global spread and severity of the disease. As of this morning, well over 1,60,000 cases have been reported from over 150 countries. These numbers have increased manifold in recent weeks, prompting WHO to characterise COVID-19 as a pandemic.

Do you think India is on the right track as far as its strategy is concerned?

It is very encouraging to see India’s efforts being led by the highest political leadership who continue to review the situation, preparedness and response. The country has been responding to the evolving situation. WHO has recommendations for countries preparing for the first case, the first cluster and community transmission and India’s containment plan is in line with it.

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