Odisha Health Experts Sound Out Caution Over Possible Covid-19 Third Wave In State

Amid rising Omicron cases, health experts in Odisha have warned people to maintain caution as the number of Covid-19 cases is likely to surge in the State in the coming days.

“Currently, Covid-19 is witnessing an upward surge in the State. Considering the rising number of cases in the neighbouring states, it is most likely that Odisha too will witness more cases in the near future,” said Director Health Services, Bijay Mohapatra.

“The first and the second wave picked up late in the State. Hence, people have to be fully cautious and strictly adhere to the Covid-19 appropriate behaviour. We have a collective responsibility to keep the third wave under control,” said Mohapatra adding that the State government is fully prepared to meet any kind of eventualities arising out of the emerging situation.

“Health experts are keeping a close eye on the pandemic situation across the country and providing inputs to the State government. New Covid guidelines will be issued accordingly,” added Mohapatra.

Meanwhile, the vaccination of children in the age of 15-18 years has been kicked off in the State from Monday.

Health department sources said the vaccination is currently underway at 945 centers across the State.

“A total of 80,129 children under 15-18 years of age received the jabs on the first day. Around 31,00,000 children under this age group category will take their first dose of vaccines in coming days,” said State Health and Family Welfare Director Bijay Panigrahi.

“If required the number of special vaccination centers in the State will be increased,” added Panigrahi.