Bhubaneswar: After two deaths suspected to be from Covid-19 were reported in Andhra Pradesh’s Kadapa district, Odisha’s health and family welfare department on Monday asked chief district medical and public health officers to take necessary steps to conduct Covid tests for symptomatic people. The director of public health also urged bordering districts to remain vigilant.Dr Rabindra Nath Mishra, director of public health, said the state has not received any instruction from the Centre to take precautionary measures or remain on alert following the reported deaths in Andhra Pradesh. “We are aware of the information, but there is no clarity on whether the two died of Covid infection or other health complications,” he said.Mishra said Odisha has not reported a single Covid-positive case despite testing several samples over the past month. “We are continuing Covid testing in the state. We have asked the CDMPHOs to follow general Covid precautionary guidelines, including avoiding mass gatherings, handwashing and wearing masks,” he said.On Rath Yatra, Mishra said there is no panic situation as the state has no active Covid case.He said people regularly travel to neighbouring states for various purposes. “If they develop Covid-like symptoms, they should voluntarily undergo Covid tests and seek treatment if they test positive,” he said.Mishra said there is no panic situation in Odisha as no Covid case has been detected. The govt is keeping a close watch on the situation. “We have asked CDMPHOs to remain vigilant, but people should not panic. Bordering districts such as Ganjam, Gajapati, Rayagada, Koraput and Malkangiri will remain alert,” he said.Andhra Pradesh has issued an alert after two deaths and eight recent Covid cases were reported. Testing has resumed in govt hospitals in the state.
