Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government has stepped up vigilance and preparedness measures in view of reported Nipah virus cases in neighbouring West Bengal, even as no suspected case has been detected in the state so far.
A high-level review meeting was held on Friday under the chairmanship of Health and Family Welfare Minister Mukesh Mahaling to assess the situation and review preventive arrangements. The meeting was attended by Health Department Commissioner and Secretary Aswathy S., Director of Public Health Dr. Nilakantha Mishra, Director of Health Services Dr. Pradeep Kumar Guru, and Director of Medical Education and Training Dr. Santosh Kumar Mishra.
Briefing the media after the meeting, the Health Minister said Odisha was exercising “full caution” following developments in West Bengal and that the Health Department remained fully prepared to deal with any eventuality. He emphasised that no suspected Nipah virus case has been reported in the state so far and appealed to the public not to panic.
The minister said all border districts have been instructed to remain on high alert, ensure early detection and immediate reporting of any suspected cases, and maintain adequate stocks of medicines, personal protective equipment and essential medical equipment in hospitals. Special emphasis has also been placed on strengthening disease surveillance and creating awareness among the public about symptoms and preventive measures.
During the meeting, officials held detailed discussions on the state’s preparedness, including protocols for surveillance, sample collection and testing, isolation facilities, and treatment arrangements, to ensure a swift and coordinated response if required.
