Berhampur: The Odisha government has placed Ganjam district on high alert following a rise in Covid-19 cases in neighbouring Andhra Pradesh. In view of the state’s proximity to Andhra Pradesh and the movement of people across the border, the district health administration has directed all government hospitals and Community Health Centres (CHCs) to strengthen surveillance, enhance testing, and ensure preparedness to deal with any potential increase in infections.
The directive has been issued by the Chief District Medical Officer (CDMO) and Public Health Officer (PHO), who instructed healthcare institutions across the district to remain vigilant and strictly follow Covid-19 monitoring protocols.
Mandatory Covid-19 Testing for SARI Patients
As part of the enhanced surveillance measures, all hospitals have been directed to conduct mandatory Covid-19 testing for every patient suffering from Severe Acute Respiratory Infection (SARI).
In addition, healthcare facilities have been instructed to test at least five per cent of patients exhibiting Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) symptoms for Covid-19. Health officials believe this targeted testing strategy will help detect infections at an early stage and prevent any possible community transmission.
The move comes as authorities closely monitor the Covid-19 situation in neighbouring Andhra Pradesh, where a rise in cases has prompted precautionary measures in bordering districts.
Hospitals Asked to Strengthen Preparedness
The district administration has directed all government hospitals, Community Health Centres, and other healthcare facilities to keep their emergency response systems fully operational.
Medical institutions have been asked to ensure that isolation wards, oxygen-supported beds, oxygen supplies, ventilators, and other critical medical equipment are readily available and functioning properly to handle any surge in patients if required.
Officials have also been instructed to regularly inspect emergency infrastructure and immediately address any deficiencies to maintain operational readiness.
Adequate Medicine Stocks to Be Maintained
To avoid shortages during any emergency, hospitals have been asked to maintain sufficient stocks of essential medicines and medical supplies.
The directive includes ensuring the availability of medicines such as ORS, paracetamol, zinc tablets, Vitamin A supplements, respiratory distress medications, azithromycin, and tetanus vaccines, along with other essential healthcare supplies.
Healthcare institutions have also been instructed to closely monitor inventory levels and replenish stocks whenever necessary.
Daily Reporting Made Mandatory
The health department has introduced a daily monitoring mechanism to keep track of the district’s preparedness.
All hospitals and healthcare facilities must submit daily reports to the district health office detailing the number of Covid-19 tests conducted, the availability of isolation facilities, oxygen support systems, medicine stocks, and overall preparedness.
Officials said continuous monitoring will help authorities respond quickly if the situation changes.
ASHA and ANM Workers to Conduct Village-Level Screening
As part of community surveillance, ASHA and ANM workers have been assigned the responsibility of conducting village-level health screening across Ganjam district.
They will identify individuals suffering from fever, cough, breathing difficulties, or other respiratory symptoms, encourage them to seek medical attention, and facilitate testing wherever required.
The frontline health workers will also carry out awareness campaigns to educate residents about Covid-19 symptoms, personal hygiene, respiratory etiquette, and the importance of seeking timely medical care.
Precautionary Measure, No Cause for Panic
Health officials clarified that the enhanced surveillance and preparedness measures are purely precautionary and have been initiated due to the increase in Covid-19 cases reported in neighbouring Andhra Pradesh.
Residents have been advised to remain alert, follow basic hygiene practices, avoid self-medication, and consult healthcare providers if they develop symptoms such as fever, cough, sore throat, or breathing difficulties.
Authorities said the situation is being closely monitored, and further action will be taken based on the evolving public health scenario.
