Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government on Saturday reviewed its preparedness and preventive measures against any possible outbreak of Ebola virus disease, with Health and Family Welfare Minister Mukesh Mahaling directing officials to strengthen screening systems at airports and enhance surveillance across the state.
A high-level review meeting was held at Lok Seva Bhavan to assess the state’s readiness to tackle any potential Ebola-related health emergency.
During the meeting, officials conducted a detailed review of precautionary measures, availability of healthcare infrastructure, preparedness of isolation facilities, and arrangements for medicines and safety equipment.
The Health Minister stressed the need for stricter screening protocols at all airports in the state and laid special emphasis on early identification of suspected cases, preparedness of isolation wards, and adequate availability of protective gear and medicines.
The meeting also decided to intensify public awareness campaigns on the Ebola virus to prevent panic and counter misinformation and rumours.
Mahaling said the Odisha government is fully prepared to deal with any possible health emergency situation and appealed to people not to panic unnecessarily while remaining vigilant and aware.
Among those present at the meeting were Health and Family Welfare Department Commissioner-cum-Secretary Aswathy S., National Health Mission Managing Director Dr. Brunda D., Special Secretaries Dr. Bijay Mahapatra and Dr. Nilakantha Mishra, Bhubaneswar Airport DGM (Operations) Umakant Patel, senior officials, and the Director of Public Health.
