Puducherry witnessed a sudden spike in the number of COVID-19 cases with in a few days  from single digit to 444 new cases today. <br />'' <br />''In a press release, Director of Health G Sriramulu said that Puducherry region reported 350 new cases,  Karaikal had 84 ,  followed by 1 in Yanam and 9 cases in Mahe. With the latest addition, the total cases in the Union Territory so far rose to 1,30,722. Out of 1250 active cases, 100 are treated in hospitals and 1150 are under home isolation. So far 14, 63, 660 doses of COVID vaccine administered including 2 nd dose. <br />''<br />''The recovery rate touched 97.6 % and positivity rate stands at 13.87 %. Following the sudden threat, the Puducherry government has issued new restrictions in the Union Territory effective until January 31 2022. Only 50% occupancy will be allowed in malls, market complexes and shops, Transports, cinema theatres, restaurants, bars, Auditorium s, saloons and gyms etc.<br />