[COVID-19] Vigorously follow “testing, tracing and treatment” to avoid third wave: Gujarat High Court

The Gujarat High Court on Monday directed the State Government to take all necessary actions to improve and prepare the health infrastructure in the State to be ready for the third wave (Suo Moto v. State of Gujarat).A Bench comprising Justices Bela M Trivedi and Bhargav D Karia recommended vigorously following “testing, tracing and treatment” since Covid-19 cases have reduced presently, and it is easier for the administration to trace and quarantine contacts..The Court, therefore, asked the State Government to place on record an action plan to meet a possible third wave of the pandemic. The Court was hearing a suo motu public interest litigation petition registered in this regard. .Senior Advocate Percy Kavina submitted that the government has not provided details regarding the vaccination schedule in the State of Gujarat and that though details were made publicly available regarding orders placed for vaccines, no more information was made available such as when the vaccines would be administered to the public at large..He also stated that no clarity was afforded to the general public with respect to the time gap between two doses of the vaccine and the same kept changing. Therefore, the State government should lay down clear guidelines on these aspects, he said. .Another concern highlighted was that no explanation was provided by the State government regarding the method of treatment for patients suffering from Mucormycosis..Advocate General Kamal Trivedi submitted that sufficient steps have been taken for the vaccination of the public, it is an ongoing process and that data cannot be placed on record since vaccine manufacturers have not provided a schedule for supply..The matter will be heard next on July 2, 2021..[Read Order]