As the number of daily cases exceeds 36,000, genome sequencing is not a top priority in Maharashtra.

Mumbai:On the advice of the state Covid Task Force, Maharashtra will no longer prioritise genomic sequencing of samples. This comes as the state reported over 36,000 instances on Thursday, a staggering 36.65% spike from the previous day.

The authorities reasoned that genome sequencing is failing to keep up as the country continues to create a tidal wave of everyday instances.

State Health Minister Rajesh Tope treating patients is more essential than discovering coronavirus variations. So far, 876 cases of the Omicron variant have been identified in Maharashtra.

“Genome sequencing is not the most essential thing right now,” he continued, “and that is what the Task Force and bodies like the ICMR feel right now.”

“We will do everything we can, but it is not for everyone.” For example, if the Rapid Antigen Test is positive, the RT-PCR test does not need to be repeated. Following that, there is no need to perform genome sequencing because the treatment of the variations, whether Delta or Omicron, is not significantly different.”

Mumbai’s civic body, BMC, which had previously stated that it would conduct as many tests as possible as instances began to rise, particularly in the capital, will continue to test for the variations as usual.

“The Indian government planned to sequence the genome to better understand the transmission of the omicron virus.” The dates ranged from December 21 until December 31. This is the final chapter. “However, our usual procedure of genome sequencing will continue,”

The state’s aim, according to the minister, is to halt the spread of the virus, and limits have been placed to that end.

“We have prohibited weddings, social gatherings, religious gatherings, and political gatherings.” We have also closed colleges. “We have chosen to close schools in places where the positive rate has increased significantly, such as Pune and Mumbai, where it is over 20%,” he said.

However, if officials see “anything unsettling” in the situation and numbers in the following days, a decision to further curbs would be made, he added.

We’re keeping a close eye on the figures and analysing them on a daily basis. And the Chief Minister will make a final judgement based on this.”

Mumbai reported a 33% increase in daily cases over yesterday, with over 20,000 Covid infections diagnosed in 24 hours for the first time since the pandemic’s onset. During the same time period, four connected deaths were also reported.