Odisha reports first COVID-19 case in Bhubaneswar, health officials urge public to stay calm

Bhubaneswar, May 22: The Odisha Health and Family Welfare Department has confirmed the first COVID-19 case in the state capital, assuring citizens that the situation remains under control and there is no cause for panic. Officials stated that the patient is in stable condition and receiving appropriate medical care.

Commissioner-cum-Secretary of the department, Aswathy S., addressed the media on Thursday, emphasizing that while the case is being closely monitored, there is currently no immediate health advisory in place.

“The available data indicates that the strain detected is mild in nature and poses low health risks. Our systems are fully prepared and functioning effectively,” she said.

Aswathy further clarified that the Government of India has not issued any formal advisories yet, and the state will act in accordance with any new national guidelines as they emerge.

She described the case as isolated, with no evidence of a wider outbreak or community transmission. Surveillance measures have been stepped up as a precaution, and authorities are ready to scale up their response if additional cases are detected or if new protocols are introduced by the Centre.