Amaravati, Apr 9 (IANS): The number of Covid-19 cases in Andhra Pradesh rose to 348 as the day drew to a close on Wednesday. The evening media bulletin issued by the state nodal officer noted that 19 new cases were detected through the tests conducted between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. on Wednesday.

The highest number of cases -- eight - was reported from Guntur district, followed by seven in Anantapur, three in Prakasam, and one in West Godavari.

Despite no new cases being reported in the latest batch of tests, Kurnool district continues to lead with 75 cases, followed by Guntur at 49 and Nellore at 48.

The nodal officer also reported that three Covid-19 patients have recovered and were discharged from different hospitals on Wednesday. Those discharged on Wednesday included a 49-year old female patient, a 25-year old male and a 51-year old male.

Meanwhile, to augment its existing health services infrastructure, as a precautionary measure, the state government has introduced a Covid Warrior Volunteer scheme. Under the scheme, the government has invited applications from students of medical, dental, Unani and Ayurveda colleges in the state to apply as volunteers in the fight against Covid-19.

Apart from the 271 colleges spread across the 13 districts of the state, the government is also opening the scheme to students of associated courses. The scheme also welcomes doctors and medical professionals from private hospitals to serve as volunteers in the quarantine centres.

The warrior volunteers will get priority in medical and health department recruitments that the state government undertakes in the future.