Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government directed all Hospital authorities across State to remain alert and take proactive measures to combat any surge in COVID-19 cases in the state.
In a letter to all CDMOs, Medical Colleges and Capital Hospital authorities, State Health Department directed to increase ILI/SARI surveillance and make testing available in all health centres across the State.
Public Health Director Niranjan Mishra outlined specific action points in the letter, emphasizing the need for immediate and proactive measures to counter any potential surge in COVID-19 cases within the state. The action directives are as follows:
Surveillance should be increased and testing made available at all health institutions from CHC and above
For those testing positive for COVID, home isolation protocol should be strictly followed and necessary treatment provided
Dedicated beds and oxygen-supported beds should be ensured and there should not be unnecessary referrals
The COVID management strategy should be strictly followed
The health authorities should coordinate and collaborate with district administration to increase IEC/BCC for community awareness.
The awareness campaign should emphasize that symptomatic, elderly, and vulnerable populations must adhere to COVID-19-appropriate behavior.
Ensure adequate availability of test kits, reagents drugs, and consumables in coordination with OSMCL
There should be timely data entry and reporting as per the protocol.
Training and capacity building of healthcare providers and laboratory personnel should be ensured.
Worth mentioning, the total COVID positive cases in the state have gone up to 13 with five new patients reported in the last 24 hours.
