Bhubaneswar: As the fear of COVID-19 third wave due to the new Omicron variant rises, Odisha Government has levelled up it preparedness to tackle the possible situation.

Briefing mediapersons, Director of Public Health Niranjan Mishra today said third wave of COVID-19 pandemic is imminent, if the rate of transmission in Britain due to Omicron variant is taken into consideration. However, the state Government is well-prepared and capable of tackling the impending situation.

"Infrastructures across hospitals would be augmented if the number of patients rises in future. We would be able to provide treatment to as many patients. For now, adequate beds, medical oxygen and drugs for emergency use are available in the state," the official added.

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He further said, "Surveillance has been intensified for early detection of Omicron cases. Genome sequencing is essential for detection of the variant. Hence, authorities concerned have been asked to increase the number of samples for genome sequencing."

Mishra further informed that over 1500 people from 'at risk' countries have returned to the state so far.

Regarding reports of a Nigeria returnee being infected with Omicron variant, the senior health official said, " We have no information on this till yet. His sample has been sent for genome sequencing. The district administration has been asked to submit details forthwith."

Reportedly, two Nigeria returnees and seven others, who came in contact with the them, have tested positive for the virus in Cuttack. The samples of the infected persons have been sent for genome sequencing to ascertain the variant of COVID-19.