Odisha Reports Five Covid-19 Cases, Situation Under Control: Public Health Director

Bhubaneswar: Odisha’s Public Health Director, Dr. Nilakantha Mishra, on Wednesday urged citizens not to panic following the detection of five Covid-19 cases in the State, assuring that the situation is well under control.

Dr. Mishra confirmed that five individuals have tested positive for Covid-19, including one female patient. Of the confirmed cases, four are from Bhubaneswar, while one case has been reported from Khordha district.

“There is no indication of an unusual surge in infections,” said Dr. Mishra, while addressing media queries. “If any case is reported from any part of the State, RT-PCR testing will be conducted, and genome sequencing will be performed if deemed necessary.”

He also informed that the first Covid-19 patient detected in Odisha this year is in stable condition. Genome sequencing of the patient confirmed infection with the JN.1 subvariant of the Omicron strain.

At present, no new Covid-related guidelines have been issued by the Central Government. Hospitals across Odisha continue to follow the existing Covid protocols laid out in 2022.

Dr. Mishra reiterated that the Health Department is closely monitoring the situation and urged the public to remain cautious but calm.