‘Do Not Panic Over Nipah Virus’: Health Minister
Odisha Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr. Mukesh Mahaling chaired a high-level review meeting today to assess the state’s preparedness against the Nipah virus.
Senior officials, including Commissioner-cum-Secretary Ashwathi S., Director of Public Health Dr. Neelakantha Mishra, Director of Health Services Dr. Pradeep Kumar Guru, and Director of Medical Education and Training Dr. Santosh Kumar Mishra, attended the meeting.
The Minister stated that the meeting was convened after Nipah virus cases were detected in neighbouring West Bengal. He clarified that no suspected cases have been identified in Odisha so far. “The government is fully alert and closely monitoring the situation. The Health Department is prepared, and citizens should not panic,” he assured.
Officials were directed to maintain strict vigilance in border districts, ensure immediate detection and reporting of suspected cases, and keep hospitals equipped with adequate medicines, PPE kits, and medical supplies. The Minister also emphasised the importance of public awareness campaigns to prevent misinformation and ensure community preparedness.
The meeting discussed Odisha’s current status, precautionary measures, disease surveillance, sample testing, isolation facilities, and treatment arrangements. The Health Department reiterated its commitment to proactive monitoring and rapid response to safeguard public health.
