Odisha Medical Colleges Boost COVID-19 Surveillance and Testing
Tuesday, 02 January 2024, 11:18 IST
In response to a recent spike in COVID-19 cases across India, the Odisha state government has directed government-run medical colleges and chief district medical officers to enhance their surveillance, testing, and readiness measures to address any potential surge in the state. With Odisha documenting 14 new COVID-19 cases this month, the government has urged medical institutions and officials to boost their vigilance and preparedness for a potential increase in virus cases.
Public Health Director Niranjan Mishra in a letter to all medical colleges and CDMOs said, "The recent rise in COVID-19 cases across India necessitates immediate and proactive measures to combat any surge in COVID-19 cases in the state. In continuation of the earlier communication, you are requested to implement the action points given therein and to remain alert to meet any exigency".
The state government said that ILI (influenza-like illness), and SARI (severe acute respiratory infection) surveillance should be increased and testing to be made available in every health institution. For those found positive, it said home isolation protocol is to be strictly followed and necessary treatment support should be provided besides ensuring dedicated beds and oxygen-supported beds for any admission and management as per the COVID management protocol and there should not be any unnecessary referrals.
It also asked the authorities that the COVID management strategy should be followed. "Coordinate and collaborate with district administration for increasing IEC (Information Education Communication) and BCC (Behaviour Change Communication) for community awareness emphasizing that symptomatic, elderly and vulnerable populations should adhere to the COVID-19 appropriate behaviour", the letter said.
Additionally, the authorities were instructed to guarantee sufficient availability of test kits, reagents, drugs, and consumables to effectively manage the COVID situation in collaboration with Odisha State Medical Corporation Limited. Furthermore, they were reminded of the importance of timely data entry and reporting in accordance with the prescribed protocol, as well as the necessity for training and capacity building of healthcare providers and laboratory personnel. The directive also emphasized the need to have a contingency plan prepared to address any unforeseen circumstances.
Another individual has tested positive for COVID-19, and it's noteworthy that one patient has successfully recovered. Currently, there are 13 active COVID-19 cases in the state, according to Mishra. The public health director mentioned that all new patients exhibit mild symptoms and are receiving treatment under home isolation, with their health condition reported to be stable. The Health and Family Welfare Department has emphasized the importance of elderly individuals and those with co-morbidities using facemasks when going out. Additionally, the elderly are advised to refrain from visiting crowded places.
Public Health Director Niranjan Mishra in a letter to all medical colleges and CDMOs said, "The recent rise in COVID-19 cases across India necessitates immediate and proactive measures to combat any surge in COVID-19 cases in the state. In continuation of the earlier communication, you are requested to implement the action points given therein and to remain alert to meet any exigency".
The state government said that ILI (influenza-like illness), and SARI (severe acute respiratory infection) surveillance should be increased and testing to be made available in every health institution. For those found positive, it said home isolation protocol is to be strictly followed and necessary treatment support should be provided besides ensuring dedicated beds and oxygen-supported beds for any admission and management as per the COVID management protocol and there should not be any unnecessary referrals.
It also asked the authorities that the COVID management strategy should be followed. "Coordinate and collaborate with district administration for increasing IEC (Information Education Communication) and BCC (Behaviour Change Communication) for community awareness emphasizing that symptomatic, elderly and vulnerable populations should adhere to the COVID-19 appropriate behaviour", the letter said.
Additionally, the authorities were instructed to guarantee sufficient availability of test kits, reagents, drugs, and consumables to effectively manage the COVID situation in collaboration with Odisha State Medical Corporation Limited. Furthermore, they were reminded of the importance of timely data entry and reporting in accordance with the prescribed protocol, as well as the necessity for training and capacity building of healthcare providers and laboratory personnel. The directive also emphasized the need to have a contingency plan prepared to address any unforeseen circumstances.
Another individual has tested positive for COVID-19, and it's noteworthy that one patient has successfully recovered. Currently, there are 13 active COVID-19 cases in the state, according to Mishra. The public health director mentioned that all new patients exhibit mild symptoms and are receiving treatment under home isolation, with their health condition reported to be stable. The Health and Family Welfare Department has emphasized the importance of elderly individuals and those with co-morbidities using facemasks when going out. Additionally, the elderly are advised to refrain from visiting crowded places.
