As Odisha gears up for the annual Rath Yatra, which attracts massive footfall from across the country, the state’s health department has tightened surveillance after reporting five new COVID-19 cases in the past 24 hours. Though the case count remains low, the timing, coinciding with one of the largest festivals in the region, has prompted a precautionary ramp-up of healthcare preparedness to avoid any potential outbreak.
Proactive Measures Ahead of Rath Yatra
With large gatherings expected during the Rath Yatra, authorities are leaving no room for complacency. District administrations have been directed to stay on high alert and ensure the readiness of essential healthcare infrastructure, including oxygen plants, hospital beds, ICU facilities, and life-saving medications.
In addition, an order for 10,000 COVID-19 test kits has been placed as part of a broader phased plan to strengthen diagnostics and containment. Officials indicate this is a strategic move to ensure rapid testing and isolation if cases rise during or after the festival.
“We are closely monitoring the situation even though the number of active cases is currently very low. There’s no need to panic at this stage, but we are staying vigilant,” said Aswathy S., the state health secretary. She added that further steps will depend on directives from the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.
Also Read: COVID Vaccine No Longer Advised For Healthy Kids And Pregnant Women, Says RFK Jr
Details of the New Cases
The five individuals who tested positive for COVID-19 include one woman and four men, all between the ages of 35 and 45. One of them was diagnosed at a government facility in Khurda, while the remaining four were identified through private laboratories and hospitals.
Health authorities confirmed that two of the patients have already been discharged. The others are stable and showing signs of recovery. So far, the state’s COVID tally for the month has risen to six, including a previously reported case.
Genomic Surveillance Underway
The rise in infections comes amid national concerns regarding the spread of highly transmissible COVID-19 sub-lineages such as LF.7 and NB.1.8.1 in other states. Odisha has initiated genomic sequencing to identify the variant profiles of the latest infections.
Also Read: Stay Healthy on the Move: Top 10 Hygiene Protocols to Keep COVID-19 Away While Travelling
Initial genome analysis revealed that one of the samples tested positive for JN.1—a sub-variant of Omicron already circulating in several parts of the country. More samples have been sent for sequencing, and their results are awaited.
Director of Public Health Dr Nilakantha Mishra confirmed that the patient infected with JN.1 is recovering well. “This is a known sub-variant and not one to raise alarm. The patient is stable and expected to be discharged soon. As of now, we don’t see any concerning trends in the state,” he told the media.
Experts Emphasise Caution During Festivals
Despite reassurances, medical experts warn that mass gatherings could accelerate transmission if not managed properly. Given the high transmissibility of variants like JN.1, they stress that early detection and isolation will be critical in preventing localised outbreaks during the Rath Yatra.
“Even a slight increase in cases can snowball into a cluster during a festival of this scale. Preventive measures such as surveillance, crowd control, and quick testing are vital,” said a senior epidemiologist advising the state.
No Cause for Panic, Say Officials
The state health department has reassured citizens that current measures are precautionary and meant to maintain public safety. Officials urge the public to follow hygiene protocols, avoid unnecessary crowding, and stay alert to symptoms.
While Odisha currently faces a manageable situation, the coming weeks, especially around the Rath Yatra, will be crucial in determining whether this uptick remains under control or signals a wider trend. Until then, the state’s health machinery is on standby, ready to respond swiftly.