Brahmapur: Authorities in Odisha’s Ganjam district have intensified COVID-19 preparedness measures after reports of fresh coronavirus cases emerged in neighbouring Andhra Pradesh.
Chief District Medical Officer (CDMO) Bhabani Shankar Mishra has directed all healthcare facilities in the district to strictly follow the revised guidelines issued by the Health and Family Welfare Department and remain prepared for any potential rise in infections.
According to the directive, hospitals have been instructed to conduct mandatory COVID-19 testing for patients suffering from Severe Acute Respiratory Illness (SARI) and undertake random testing of at least five per cent of patients with Influenza-Like Illness (ILI).
Healthcare institutions have also been asked to review and ensure the operational readiness of isolation wards, oxygen-supported beds and other critical healthcare infrastructure. Officials have been directed to keep oxygen plants, oxygen concentrators and cylinders fully functional and ready for use if required.
As part of the surveillance strategy, frontline health workers, including ASHA and ANM personnel, have been tasked with monitoring their respective areas for any unusual increase in fever or respiratory illness cases. They have also been instructed to create public awareness about respiratory hygiene, encourage early medical consultation for symptomatic individuals and prevent unnecessary panic among residents.
The district administration has further emphasised the need to maintain adequate stocks of essential medicines and medical supplies, including ORS, paracetamol, zinc, Vitamin A supplements, respiratory stimulants and azithromycin tablets.
Health officials have been directed to closely monitor the evolving situation and submit daily reports on SARI and ILI testing, healthcare infrastructure preparedness and the availability of medical logistics to the District Public Health Unit.
The heightened alert comes amid growing concerns over fresh COVID-19 cases reported in Andhra Pradesh, prompting Odisha’s border districts to strengthen surveillance and preparedness measures as a precautionary step.
