Odisha’s Capital, Bhubaneswar, has recorded its first COVID-19-related fatality of the year 2025. The deceased, an elderly individual, had tested positive for COVID-19 on May 22 after returning from Delhi. The patient, who was battling multiple comorbidities, was undergoing treatment at home.
According to reports, the individual exhibited symptoms of COVID-19 upon return, prompting a test that confirmed the infection.
Health officials have not yet provided an official statement, but sources indicate the patient was infected with a sub-variant of Omicron, consistent with cases recently identified in Tamil Nadu and Kerala.
Earlier, Dr. Nilakantha Mishra, Director of Public Health, clarified that this is not a new strain of the virus but a sub-variant of Omicron. “The infection rate remains low, and no medical emergency has arisen,” Dr. Mishra stated. However, he cautioned that individuals with pre-existing conditions face heightened risks. “There’s no cause for panic, as most people have developed immunity from prior infections or vaccinations. The government is fully prepared to tackle COVID-19,” he added.
The health department had issued an advisory earlier this month, urging vigilance amid rising cases.
While the situation in Odisha remains under control, authorities are monitoring infection rates and will take necessary steps if cases surge.
The state awaits further guidelines from the central government to shape its response strategy.
