Odisha on high alert as two Covid-19 deaths reported in Andhra Pradesh

Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government has intensified Covid-19 surveillance along its border districts following a recent rise in coronavirus cases and two suspected Covid-related deaths in neighbouring Andhra Pradesh.

The state  health department has directed officials to remain on high alert ahead of the annual Rath Yatra.

The Public health Director Dr. Rabindranath Mishra has directed the Chief District Medical Officers (CDMOs) of all Odisha districts sharing a border with Andhra Pradesh to remain alert.They have been asked to intensify surveillance and ensure that all suspected COVID-19 cases are tested at district headquarters hospitals.

The state has been maintaining Covid surveillance and conducting regular testing across healthcare facilities. He assured that no positive cases have been detected in Odisha so far and urged the public not to panic, informed Dr Mishra.

The health department has also directed local authorities to remain vigilant and respond promptly to any suspected cases reported from border areas or other parts of the state.

The precautionary measures come ahead of the annual Rath Yatra, which is expected to draw lakhs of devotees from across the country to Odisha.  Health officials said anyone showing Covid-like symptoms during the festival period will be tested and treated as per the prescribed Covid-19 protocols.