Odisha CM stresses on booster dose for elderly, frontline workers

Bhubaneswar: Reviewing the prevailing COVID-19 situation in the state, Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik today directed officials concerned to focus on administration of booster dose to elderly people and frontline workers.

At the virtual meeting, Patnaik also asked the administration to remain cautious and carry on various COVID awareness programmes across the state with active cooperation of Mission Shakti groups.

Patnaik said, “While the number of active cases is stable, the tally of fresh infections has also declined in the state. Besides, the burden on hospitals is also less during the third wave. However, administration should remain fully prepared and keep an eye on the situation.”

The CM also directed Odisha Police to ensure that people follow all COVID safety norms properly. He also asked Rapid Response Teams and field workers to monitor health condition of infectees undergoing treatment while being under home isolation.

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At the meeting, Development Commissioner and Special Relief Commission (SRC) Pradeep Jena appraised the CM about various steps taken by the administration for compliance of COVID safety protocols.

Health and Family Welfare Department Additional Chief Secretary RK Sharma informed that with 65,000 to 70,000 samples being tested every day, the state’s daily positivity rate currently stands at 11.4 per cent, which is less than the national average. Mainly, districts like Jajpur, Balasore, Cuttack, Sundargarh and Khordha have high positivity rate, he added.

Among others, Commissioners of Cuttack and Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporations and Collectors of Khordha and Rayagada districts presented the prevailing scenario in their respective jurisdictions.