Maharashtra: 35 new Covid-19 cases; testing ramped up

In all 1,791 tests were conducted, yielding a test positivity rate of 1.9 per cent. This is a slight decrease from Friday when the rate surged to 2.8 per cent.

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Currently, the state has 103 active Covid-19 cases, with Mumbai bearing the highest burden at 52, followed by Thane with 18 cases and Pune with 17 cases. (Representational Image)

Maharashtra reported 35 new Covid-19 cases on Saturday, marking one of the highest daily figures in several months. The surge can be attributed to increased daily testing, with over a 1,000 tests conducted in the last 24 hours.

In all 1,791 tests were conducted, yielding a test positivity rate of 1.9 per cent. This is a slight decrease from Friday when the rate surged to 2.8 per cent. Out of the 676 tests conducted on Friday, 19 tested positive.

On Saturday, The Indian Express highlighted the sluggish testing rates in the state, where despite a surge in daily cases only an average of 650 tests were being conducted in a population estimated at 12 crore. Experts expressed concern over this relatively low testing rate, given the substantial burden of ongoing cases of seasonal flu across the state. Responding, the state health ministry took notice and instructed districts to significantly ramp up testing ahead of the festival season.

Meanwhile, the state health department has initiated the establishment of a dedicated Covid task force.

Currently, the state has 103 active Covid-19 cases, with Mumbai bearing the highest burden at 52, followed by Thane with 18 cases and Pune with 17 cases.

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