Coronavirus: RT-PCR Negative Certificates Mandatory For People From Maharashtra, Kerala to Enter Karnataka

Karnataka has not reported any South African or Brazilian strain as of now.

Bengaluru: Karnataka government on Saturday issued a circular stating that people travelling from neighbouring Maharashtra and Kerala must have a negative RT-PCR certificate before entering the state. State Health Minister Dr K Sudhakar said, “We have issued a circular regarding COVID-19 after seeing the surge in cases in Maharashtra and Kerala as both the states share borders with us.”

“On average, 4,000-5,000 cases being reported in Kerala and 5,000-6,000 in Maharashtra daily. We share borders with them. So, we issued circulars. Unless we see RT-PCR negative certificates from those coming from these states they will not be permitted to enter the state,” Sudhakar told reporters.

Karnataka government issues a circular in view of rising cases of COVID-19 in neighbouring Maharashtra. "A negative RT-PCR certificate that is not older than 72 hours shall be compulsory for those arriving by flights/ buses/trains/personal transport," it reads. pic.twitter.com/ByAovm8YeB

— ANI (@ANI) February 20, 2021

The Health Minister further said that the state has not found any South African strain or Brazilian strain (of COVID-19).

“We have not found any South African strain or Brazilian strain. All that we have found is the UK strain, only in those passengers who travelled from the UK to Bengaluru. We have not allowed it to spread in the society,” he said.

“We have inoculated over 6 lakh people in Karnataka. However, I am not satisfied with the percentage of total inoculation. I hope all the health workers will understand the importance of taking vaccination,” he said.

(With inputs from ANI)