India is ramping up its COVID-19 preparedness as active cases surpass 4,000, prompting a nationwide hospital mock drill on Thursday, June 5. The drill aims to evaluate healthcare facilities' readiness in managing a potential surge in infections.

According to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, 276 new COVID-19 cases and seven deaths were reported on Wednesday. Maharashtra recorded four fatalities, while Tamil Nadu, Delhi, and Gujarat each reported one. The country's total COVID-19 death toll now stands at 44. 

The central government has directed all states to ensure the availability of essential resources, including oxygen supplies, isolation beds, ventilators, and critical medications. Technical review meetings were held on June 2 and 3, led by Director General of Health Services Dr. Sunita Sharma, involving key health agencies such as the Disaster Management Cell, Emergency Management Response (EMR) Cell, National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), and Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP). These discussions focused on evaluating the current COVID-19 situation and enhancing preparedness measures.

The mock drill will assess critical areas, including the functionality of isolation wards, oxygen supply systems, ventilator availability, and stockpiles of essential medicines. The goal is to ensure that hospitals across the country are equipped to respond efficiently to any potential increase in COVID-19 cases.