Deadly Delta variant still active in Odisha; threat not over yet: Top health official

Bhubaneswar: Even though Odisha is currently witnessing a downward trend in COVID-19 cases, Health Director Bijay Mohapatra today cautioned that besides the latest Omicron variant, the deadly Delta is active in the state.

Speaking to mediapersons, the senior health official said the Delta variant, which caused a devastating second wave of the virus killing thousands in the country, still exists in the state contributing 25 to 30 % to the daily positive cases.

“Unlike the highly contagious Omicron variant, Delta variant causes more severity. As per the data collected from a sample survey conducted  recently, the variant is found in 25 to 30 % of the daily cases reported in the state. Though the situation has slightly improved, we can say that the threat is not over yet,” he said urging unvaccinated people to get immunized.

Also Read: Odisha heading towards community transmission phase of Omicron!

He also advised people to keep following COVID safety norms, including mask-wearing and social distancing.

On the new NeoCov variant, the official said, “it is being found in birds only. The World Health Organisation (WHO) said there is no information on transmission of the variant from birds to humans. Let’s wait for the international statement of international scientists on the new variant.”

Regarding relaxation of COVID restrictions, Mohapatra said the situation is improving in the state with continuous decline in daily positivity rate. The state Government will take a final decision on relaxation in February after reviewing situation from all angles, he added.

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