Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government has issued fresh guidelines to prevent the spread of the more dangerous and highly contagious new strain of COVID-19.
The possibility of a new strain emerging in India began to gain more traction after a spike in cases in Maharashtra, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, and Punjab.
GUIDELINES
People of Odisha have been advised to follow appropriate COVID behaviour to avoid a lockdown-like situation and take the vaccine shot when their turn comes. They are required to wear a mask, wash hand frequently and maintain physical distance and avoid public gathering even after vaccination.
> Strict adherence to basic COVID-19 protocols– washing hands, wearing masks, and maintaining social distance.
> Stay away from crowded places.
> Those returning to Odisha from other states should undergo home isolation for seven days.
> Those developing COVID-19 symptoms should undergo the test.
NEW SYMPTOMS
The new strains of the coronavirus that have emerged in India are likely more infectious and dangerous than the original strain.
The new symptoms include fever, nausea, vomiting, body ache, diarrhoea, loss of appetite, sore throat, skin rash, nasal congestion and conjunctivitis, and even discolouration of fingers or toes. The body can feel tired and lethargic as it tries to fight off the coronavirus infection.
Reports suggest that many patients are reporting the symptom of excruciating pain in muscles and body.
The new strain can remain alive on a dry object for around eight days and spreads more easily and quickly than other variants.
The advisory has come despite the fact that Odisha is yet to report any case involving the new strain. The daily caseload in the state has been hovering below one hundred for the past few months.
