Lucknow has reported its fifth COVID-19 case amid growing concerns over the state government’s lack of preparedness. The latest patient, a 55-year-old heart patient from Triveni Nagar, tested positive despite having no travel history. Symptoms began on May 31, and the diagnosis was confirmed through a private pathology lab which is becoming an increasingly common route due to the absence of active testing in public hospitals.
Despite a visible rise in flu-like symptoms across the city, RT-PCR testing remains unavailable in most government facilities. Visits to major hospitals revealed no active screening protocols, and staff as well as patients were found without masks, raising questions about basic containment practices.
The administration claims antigen kits were dispatched to community health centers by Monday evening, but ground reports suggest otherwise.
Civil, Balrampur, and Raj Narayan hospitals admitted they are not conducting COVID tests for ordinary fever or cold cases, pushing citizens toward costly private diagnostics. Notably, Raj Narayan Hospital continues to redirect suspected cases to KGMU or SGPGI, and even civil hospitals are awaiting testing kits. While official statements emphasize readiness, public health infrastructure appears reactive rather than preventive.
