Karnataka's active caseload breached the five lakh mark with 49,058 fresh COVID-19 infections yesterday, while the death toll stood at 17,212 with 328 deaths. The infection count is now 17,90,104. There are 5,17,075 active cases in the state.<br />'' <br />''With 18,943 discharges yesterday, 12,55,797 people have been discharged so far. Chief Minister B S Yediyurappa has said further stringent measures will be taken if the surge in cases continues. He also held consultations with a few Cabinet ministers on the COVID 19 containment measures today.<br />'' <br />''Deputy Chief Minister Dr. C N Ashwathnarayana has informed that 7000 medical students studying various courses in the state will provide tele-consultancy services to those in home isolation. Air correspondent reports that those tested positive for COVID 19 but are asymptomatic and in home isolation will have the benefit of interacting with medical students on all aspects of COVID protocol. Minister Dr. Ashwathnarayana, who heads the state COVID task force has informed that 7000 medical students are trained to provide telemedicine services and 700 among them are already working.<br />'' <br />''<span style="color: #222222;">On the shortage of hospital beds faced in Bengaluru, the minister has said that he has directed officials to shift patients to step down hospitals after five days of treatment. Saying that additional beds are being created, he added that hospital beds should be for those who are critical. </span><br />