Virus claims 64 more lives; 2,127 new cases in Punjab

Tribune News Service

Chandigarh, September 23

The state recorded 2,127 new Covid-19 cases and 64 deaths over the past 24 hours.

For the first time, the number of patients who have recovered from Covid-19 is almost equal to the number of new cases. As many as 2,117 patients were discharged following treatment. So far, 1,03,464 persons in the state have tested positive for Covid-19 of which 79,244 have recovered. The total number of Covid fatalities stands at 2,990.

Jalandhar recorded 279 new Covid cases and nine deaths over the past 24 hours. Mohali and Amritsar reported 237 and 230 new cases, respectively.

Ludhiana, which remained the biggest challenge for the health authorities for several weeks, is now showing a dip in the number of new cases. It reported 184 new infections, while 11 persons lost their lives to the deadly virus. The death toll in the district has now reached 688.

Gurdaspur, with 144 new cases and six deaths, is emerging as a hotspot.

3-month extension to doctors

Chandigarh: The Punjab Government on Wednesday gave three-month extension (from October 1) to doctors who were below the age of 60 years. Health Minister Balbir Singh Sidhu said the decision was taken in view of Covid-19 situation in the state. All doctors in the 58-60 age group have been allowed extension from October 1 to December 31. TNS