Coronavirus: PM Modi directs officials to identify places for quarantine facilities

As the number of Coronavirus cases in India rises sharply, Prime Minister Narendra Modi directed officials to identify locations for sufficient quarantine facilities and make provisions for critical care as he reviewed the deadly virus situation on Saturday. The Prime Minister also highlighted the need for advanced and adequate planning which is required for managing this infectious disease.

PM Modi further addressed the work done by the concerned department so far and stated that India needs to be prepared for the virus which is escalating.

"All departments should work in convergence and action should be initiated for creating awareness about the disease and the precautions should be taken," the Prime Minister was quoted saying in an official statement. 

The Prime Minister further advised people to avoid mass gatherings as much as possible and not pay heed to rumours.

"I appeal to my fellow countrymen to stay away from rumours regarding coronavirus. We need to follow the advice of doctors in this regard," PM Modi added.

READ: PM Modi urges citizens to greet with 'Namaste' instead of handshakes amid COVID-19 scare

READ: PM Modi wishes India & Australia ahead of the T20 WC final, calls for 'MCG to go Blue'

PM Modi urges citizens to greet with 'Namaste' instead of handshakes 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday urged all to keep calm and not believe in rumours regarding the virus. He also advised people about the preventive measures that should be taken and urged people to maintain personal hygiene in wake of Coronavirus concerns. He also urged citizens to greet with 'Namaste' instead of handshakes.

"I request people to not believe in hearsay and rumours on what to do and what not to do on Coronavirus, whatever doubts you have please consult your doctor. Take advise from a doctor and do not be a doctor of your own," said Prime Minister while interacting with people from various Pradhan Mantri Bharatiya Janaushadi Pariyojana Kendras through video conferencing.

While advising people to wear a mask and gloves, PM Modi said urged people to get into the habit of greeting each other with a “namaste” instead of handshakes as one of the measures to prevent the spread of the virus.

READ: Jan Aushadi Day an opportunity to connect with beneficiaries of the scheme: PM Modi

READ: Coronavirus: PM Modi to meet Harsh Vardhan after 31 people test positive