Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government is keeping a close watch on the emergence of JN.1, a sub-variant of Omicron, and may issue guidelines if necessary, said Bijay Kumar Mohapatra, Director of Health Services, Odisha, allaying fears of people on Tuesday.
Mohapatra said that the JN.1 has not been detected in Odisha so far. In the case it is detected, genome sequencing will be undertaken.
“As per the advice of the Central government, we will continue surveillance of symptomatic cases in the state. As of today, there are enough beds and logistics for the treatment of Covid patients in the state. People who notice any symptom should undergo a Covid test immediately, he said.
It is worth mentioning here that the Union Ministry for Health issued an advisory to states on Monday regarding the fresh surge in Covid cases in some states/Union Territories and the detection of the first case of JN.1 in Kerala.
In a letter to the states and UTs, Union Health Secretary Sudhansh Pant on Monday highlighted the need for maintaining constant vigil over the Covid situation in the country. Keeping in view the upcoming festive season, the Union Health Secretary advised the states/UTs to implement requisite public health measures to minimise the risk of an increase in transmission of Covid by maintaining respiratory hygiene.
