Bhubaneswar: Odisha has intensified surveillance and preparedness measures following reports of multiple Covid-19 cases and two suspected deaths in neighbouring Andhra Pradesh’s Kadapa district in recent weeks.
State Public Health Director Dr. Rabindranath Mishra confirmed that the state’s health systems have been revived, with intensified testing and ongoing surveillance across healthcare facilities. As of now, no positive cases have been detected in Odisha, and he urged the public not to panic while assuring that authorities remain vigilant. “Covid surveillance is continuing across the state, and testing is being carried out regularly. All test results have remained negative so far. There is no need to worry, but we are always on alert,” Mishra stated.
In response to the situation in Andhra Pradesh, where around eight cases have been confirmed alongside two deaths — including a 46-year-old man from Masapeta who succumbed after treatment for severe symptoms — the Odisha Health Department has directed Chief District Medical Officers in bordering districts to heighten screening and ensure prompt testing of suspected cases at district headquarters hospitals. Hospitals have been asked to maintain readiness for isolation facilities as a precaution.
The measures follow an earlier advisory from the Centre in June 2025, when a national spike in cases prompted states to ramp up testing, particularly for Severe Acute Respiratory Illness (SARI) patients and at least five per cent of Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) cases. Positive SARI samples are also being sent for whole genome sequencing through the ICMR network.
These precautions are especially significant as Odisha prepares for the annual Rath Yatra in Puri, which draws lakhs of devotees. Health officials have indicated that anyone exhibiting Covid-like symptoms during the festival will be tested and managed according to standard protocols.
Meanwhile, Andhra Pradesh authorities have deployed rapid response teams, increased local surveillance, and initiated contact tracing in affected areas. Experts there have described the cases as isolated and emphasised that there is no need for widespread panic, noting that most instances remain mild.
