Surge in Covid19 cases; Centre asks states, including Odisha to ramp up measures, issues advisory

The shadow of COVID-19 has returned, prompting the central government to reintroduce precautionary measures. With a surge in daily infections reported across several states, the Government of India has issued a renewed public advisory and updated COVID-19 guidelines following high-level meetings with state representatives.

Fresh Spike Prompts Renewed Vigilance

Amid rising concerns, hundreds of new cases are being reported daily, triggering coordinated state-level preparedness drives. The Union Health Ministry has directed all states to ensure the availability of oxygen supply, isolation beds, ventilators, and critical medicines to combat any potential escalation.

Hospitals and Infrastructure Being Audited

Hospitals across the country are undergoing readiness checks, including mock drills, to assess their preparedness in handling another possible COVID-19 wave. Emphasis has been placed on seamless oxygen delivery systems and emergency protocols.

Surveillance of Respiratory Illnesses Intensified

As part of an integrated disease surveillance effort, states have been instructed to monitor Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) and Severe Acute Respiratory Infection (SARI) cases more aggressively. Hospitals must test all admitted SARI cases and 5% of ILI cases for COVID-19 to identify hidden transmission patterns.

Genomic Sequencing to Detect New Variants

All COVID-positive samples must be sent to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) for genomic sequencing, ensuring early detection of any new or emerging variants. This is a critical step in understanding the virus’s mutations and potential threat levels.

Rising Case Count: Kerala at the Forefront

India’s total active COVID-19 caseload for the year has touched 5,755. Kerala remains the worst-affected state, reporting 1,806 active cases, followed by Gujarat (717), Delhi (665), West Bengal (622), and Maharashtra (577). Odisha currently has 38 active cases, showing signs of early community spread.

What Odisha Government Said

Odisha has taken proactive steps to monitor and contain the spread of infection. As of 6.6.2025,  a total of 755 number of samples have been tested, out of which 38 samples tested positive. Among these, 9 individuals have already recovered completely, and the remaining are under home isolation and are stable.

To review the current national COVID-19 scenario and preparedness measures, a virtual meeting was held on 3rd June 2025 under the Chairmanship of the Director General of Health Services (DGHS), MoH&FW, with participation from State Health Authorities, ICMR Institutions, State Surveillance Unit of different States, and NCDC officials

Public Advisory

The public is advised to practice good hand hygiene, follow cough etiquette, and avoid crowded places when they are unwell.

Individuals with acute respiratory illness should self-monitor and seek medical care if symptoms worsen.