Bhubaneswar: A day after the Centre asked states and Union Territories to maintain constant vigil amidst an uptick in Covid-19 cases, state Director of Health Services Bijay Kumar Mohapatra Tuesday informed media that the state government is keeping a close watch on emergence of JN1, the new Omicron sub-variant. Mohapatra also said that the government may issue guidelines if necessary as JN1 has not yet been detected in the state. “In the case it is detected, genome sequencing will be undertaken,” he said. “As per the advice of the Central government, we will continue surveillance of symptomatic cases in the state. As of today, there are enough beds and logistics for the treatment of Covid patients in the state. People who notice any symptom should undergo a Covid test immediately,” he added.
It is worth mentioning that the Union Ministry for Health had issued an advisory to states Monday regarding the fresh surge in Covid cases and detection of the first case of JN1 in Kerala. In a letter to the states and UTs, Union Health Secretary Sudhansh Pant had highlighted the need for maintaining constant vigil over Covid situation in the country. Keeping in view the upcoming festive season, the Health Secretary had advised the states to implement requisite public health measures to minimise the risk of an increase in transmission by maintaining respiratory hygiene.
ARINDAM GANGULY, OP