Union Health Secretary Rajesh Bushan has written to States of Maharashtra, Kerala, Chhattisgarh and West Bengal urging them to take steps to curb the spike in COVID 19 cases. These States are reporting an upsurge in the number of daily news cases in the recent days. They comprise 59 percent of the total active cases in the country. The States have been advised to maintain a 'strict vigil' and to take steps to keep a check on the rising cases, especially in view of the new strain of the virus being observed in certain countries which has also been reported in a few States in India.<br />'' <br />''The Health Secretary drew the attention of the States to the low and declining testing rates, stating that any laxity at this crucial junction may squander the results of collective actions in containing the transmission. They have been advised to analyse the surge at the district and sub-district levels to understand the reasons for this rise and plan adequate measures proactively to curb the same.<br />'' <br />''<span style="color: #222222;">The Health Secretary also advised aggressive implementation of the 'Test-Track-Treat" strategy. The health authorities in the States have also been advised to proactively promote wearing of mask and other COVID appropriate behaviour even while the vaccination drive is about to begin. The States have been assured of all necessary support of the Health Ministry required to manage the pandemic. </span>