Bhubaneswar: With the state registering 19 Covid cases, the government has asked authorities in medical colleges and CDMOs to ensure enough oxygen-supported beds in hospitals. In a letter to the authorities, Director of Public Health, Niranjan Mishra said, “Ensure dedicated beds and oxygen-supported beds for any admission and management as per the management protocol and there should not be any unnecessary referrals.” He directed the authorities to increase surveillance, and testing and remain prepared for a possible surge in the number of cases. Mishra said the recent rise in COVID-19 cases across India necessitates immediate and proactive measures to combat any surge in COVID-19 cases in the state. “In continuation of the earlier communication, you are requested to implement the action points given therein and to remain alert to meet any exigency,” Mishra said while asking the concerned authorities to remain alert for any eventuality. He instructed that influenzalike illness (ILI) and severe acute respiratory infection (SARI) surveillance should increase and testing be made available in every health institution, CHC and above. The tests are to be done as per ICMR guideline version 7, he said. For those found positive, the home isolation protocol is to be strictly followed and necessary treatment support provided, he added.
The management strategy for the COVID situation should be followed, Mishra said. Side by side, Mishra asked the authorities to ensure adequate availability of test kits, reagent drugs, and consumables to deal with the COVID situation in coordination with OSMCL, Odisha. There should be timely data entry and reporting as per protocol, while contingency plan be kept ready to deal with any situation, he directed.