Omicron BF.7 scare: No need to panic, says Odisha health director

The recent surge in daily cases triggered by the BF.7, the sub-variant of Covid-19 in China, has prompted India to announce special measures to tackle any possible situation.  On Friday, Centre directed the officials to be alert and strengthen surveillance of all the states and Union Territories (UTs).

The Odisha government too issued a fresh advisory, urging people to follow Covid appropriate behaviour.

Odisha Health Director Bijay Mohapatra on Saturday said, “Even though the cases are rising in other countries, there is no need to panic. I also urge others not to make any statements which might trigger panic among people.”

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According to Mohapatra, the Covid variant was in prevalence for the last two years. But as the variant is now creating havoc in China, everybody has become alert to the situation. Experts say that despite immune protective measures like vaccination, the variant is capable of evading immunity. However, there is no severity of the disease or fatality, said Mohapatra.

“The Covid variant was last detected here in September and as of now, there is no major rise in hospitalisation or no increase in daily cases. But we are now stressing on isolation, surveillance and other measures as a precautionary measure, as per the guidelines issued by the Centre,” said Mohapatra.

Be it first, second or third wave, Odisha effectively handled the Covid situation. There is no dearth of drugs, hospital beds or any other infrastructure in the state, said the Health Director.

“The State government has already asked to conduct mock drills in hospitals to check preparedness. The government is keeping a close watch, and community participation is highly essential to deal with any situation,” he added.

(Reported by Harihar Chand)