Odisha: Covid response intensified, hospitals asked to increase testing

As Odisha has witnessed a recent surge in COVID-19 cases, the state government has issued instructions to government-run medical schools and district medical directors to improve surveillance, testing and general preparedness. , According to PTI, in a communication addressed to all medical institutions, Director of Public Health, Niranjan Mishra, highlighted the need to take immediate and proactive measures before the surge in cases across India. The government described specific measures to immediately increase surveillance of influenza-like illnesses (ILIs) and acute respiratory infections (IRAGs). Testing facilities will be expanded in all health institutions. For those who test positive, strict compliance with home isolation protocols is required. Apart from this, it has to guarantee necessary support for treatment, special beds and oxygenated beds as per the protocols of Covid management. It ordered officials to follow the COVID management strategy and cooperate with the district administration to promote community awareness through Information, Education, Communication (IEC) and Behavior Change Communication (BCC) initiatives. , Its focus is on alerting symptomatic, elderly and vulnerable populations to adopt appropriate behavior to combat COVID-19. To effectively address the situation, the government highlighted the importance of maintaining adequate supplies of testing kits, reagents, medicines and consumables. It emphasizes timely entry and presentation of data along with training and development of capabilities of medical care providers and laboratory personnel. A contingency plan should be prepared to face any unexpected event. In the last update, one new case of COVID-19 was reported in the last 24 hours, taking the total cases in Odisha to 14. However, one patient recovered, leaving 13 active cases. According to reports, people with the new cases are showing mild symptoms and are receiving treatment in home isolation and their health condition is considered stable. The Department of Health and Family Welfare has issued a warning for older people and those suffering from co-morbidities to use masks when going out and avoid crowded places.