Amid continuous heavy rainfall and rising water levels across several districts of Odisha, Health and Family Welfare Department Commissioner-cum-Secretary Aswathy S. today conducted a high-level review of emergency health preparedness.
Chairing the meeting, the Secretary placed the highest priority on ensuring uninterrupted healthcare services for people living in waterlogged and flood-affected areas. She directed district authorities to maintain adequate stocks of essential medicines, oral rehydration salts (ORS), bleaching powder, halogen tablets, anti-snake venom and other critical supplies.
Special attention was ordered for vulnerable groups. Regular health check-ups must continue, with focused care for pregnant women, children, the elderly and persons with disabilities. Expectant mothers nearing delivery should be shifted to the nearest medical facility wherever required. In areas cut off by floodwaters, ambulance services are to be supported by fire services personnel.
The Secretary further instructed that all primary health centres in the affected zones be staffed with MBBS doctors, generators kept ready, and pump sets installed immediately in waterlogged hospitals to restore functionality.
Strong coordination with other departments was emphasised to safeguard drinking water quality, ensure food safety, maintain sanitation and intensify public awareness campaigns. Chief District Medical Officers (CDMOs) and Public Health Officers (PHOs) were strictly directed not to leave their district headquarters. The control room of the Director of Public Health has been tasked with maintaining continuous contact with every affected area and initiating prompt action.
Senior officials of the department, representatives of the Odisha State Medical Corporation and the CDMOs and PHOs of the impacted districts participated in the review through virtual mode.
The state health administration remains on high alert to prevent any outbreak of water-borne or other diseases during the ongoing monsoon crisis.
