Bhubaneswar, July 13: With Covid-19 cases witnessing a rise in neighbouring Andhra Pradesh, the Odisha government has intensified surveillance and precautionary measures in border districts to prevent any possible spread of the infection. The move comes after reports of fresh Covid-19 cases and two suspected Covid-related deaths in Andhra Pradesh’s Kadapa district.
Public Health Director Dr. Rabindranath Mishra on Monday said the Health Department is closely monitoring the situation through regular testing across healthcare facilities in the state. He assured that no positive Covid-19 case has been detected in Odisha so far and appealed to the public to remain calm.
“Covid monitoring is continuing across Odisha, and testing is being conducted regularly in all healthcare institutions. So far, all test reports have been negative. There is no need to panic, but the situation is being monitored closely,” Dr. Mishra said.
As a precautionary measure, the Health Department has directed Chief District Medical Officers (CDMOs) of all districts bordering Andhra Pradesh to strengthen surveillance at entry points. Officials have been instructed to ensure that every suspected Covid-19 case is tested promptly at district headquarters hospitals.
The heightened vigilance comes ahead of the annual Rath Yatra, which is expected to draw lakhs of devotees from across the country to Odisha. To prevent any potential outbreak during the festival, authorities have directed health officials to immediately test and manage anyone exhibiting Covid-like symptoms in accordance with the prescribed public health protocols.
Meanwhile, Andhra Pradesh has stepped up its own preparedness by deploying rapid response teams, increasing surveillance, and directing hospitals to keep isolation wards ready. Odisha authorities have reiterated that while there is no immediate cause for concern, continuous monitoring and timely preventive measures remain essential to safeguard public health during the upcoming festive season.
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