Odisha CM For Close Watch On COVID-19 Situation Amid Omicron BF.7 Scare

Bhubaneswar: Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, who reviewed the COVID-19 situation, has directed the health officials to remain prepared and keep a close watch in the wake of detection of Omicrom BF-7 variant in the state and spurt in Coronavirus cases in many countries.

Briefing reporters about CM’s review meeting held on Tuesday, Public Health Director Niranjan Mishra said the Chief Minister has advised all to take precaution, wear masks, maintain social distance and strictly adhere to COVID appropriate behaviour.

While the new year is approaching and people are in a festive mood amid a spurt in COVID cases in several countries, Mishra said there is no need for panic, but people must take necessary precautions.

Stating that the situation is stable, he said it is necessary to remain prepared to contain the disease and prevent its spread. Odisha has not recorded any rise in COVID cases since November and less than 12  cases are being reported daily, he said.

Noting that the state has not witnessed a spurt in COVID cases during third wave which was spread due to Omicron sub-variant and duration of third wave was very short, Mishra said Omicron sub-variant may spread this time too but one cannot make predictions about its impact.

COVID mock drills were carried out in several hospitals in Odisha including SCB Medical College and Hospital in Cuttack to monitor the efficient management system.

Availability of oxygen plants, oxygen cylinders and pipes, ICU wards, ventilators and other facilities were inspected during the mock drill.