Follow COVID appropriate behaviour to avoid lockdown/shutdown in Odisha: Official

Bhubaneswar: Amid resurgence of COVID-19 due to Omicron BF.7 sub-variant of the virus, Odisha Public Health Director Niranjan Mishra today said people need to adhere to COVID appropriate behaviour to avoid lockdown and shutdown in the state.

“There is no need to panic about the sub-variant of the virus. COVID cases are rising exponentially in other countries but the situation in our country is not the same. However, chances of spike in the cases in future can’t be ruled out. People should obey COVID-related rules to avoid lockdown and shutdown situation,” said Mishra.

“Herd immunity is strong in India. Therefore, people should be alert instead of panicking. A meeting will be held tomorrow by the state government in view of the current situation, where decision regarding the New Year celebrations and Hockey World Cup will be taken. This apart, decision over the previously-implemented fine system for COVID norm violation will also be taken,” he added.

Informing about the meeting, Health Services Director Bijay Mohapatra said it will be held at the Lok Seva Bhawan here tomorrow at 12.30 PM.

“Decision regarding necessary measures in view of the situation will be taken at the meeting. Concerned officials of the Health Department, RMRC, ILS and Medical Colleges will be present at the meeting,” said Mohapatra.

“The Health Department has urged people to wear mask, especially at crowded places, and receive booster dose of COVID vaccine. They have also been advised not to go to crowded places unnecessarily. Surveillance, testing, tracking and treatment approach of the government will continue. Necessary guidelines will be issued as directed by the Central Government,” he added.

Also read– Details About Omicron Subvariant BF.7 Infected Person Detected In Odisha.