Odisha Health Secretary Urges Public to Stay Calm Amid Isolated COVID-19 Case

Bhubaneswar, May 22 : Odisha Health and Family Welfare Department Secretary Aswathy S has urged citizens not to panic following the detection of an isolated COVID-19 case in the state, assuring that the situation remains under control and is being closely monitored by health authorities.

Addressing the media on Thursday, Aswathy confirmed that the state government is fully alert and prepared to handle any potential developments related to the virus. Her remarks came in response to concerns raised after a single COVID-19 case was reported involving an elderly man with pre-existing health conditions who had recently returned from Delhi.

“The patient has tested positive for COVID-19, but his condition is stable,” she said, adding that the case is being managed as per established health protocols.

The Health Secretary emphasized that sporadic cases of COVID-19 continue to appear across the country even after the major waves of 2020–2021, and such occurrences are not uncommon. “Odisha has successfully contained the virus over the past few years, thanks to mass vaccination drives, timely intervention, and effective public health strategies,” she noted.

Aswathy reassured the public that no new health advisories have been issued by the World Health Organization (WHO) or the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) in response to such cases. She clarified that the variants currently being detected are mild and belong to previously known strains, posing no significant threat of severe illness.

“Sporadic cases are an ongoing phenomenon and are being dealt with efficiently,” she said, reiterating that the health department is maintaining strict vigilance and will continue to act swiftly should any additional cases emerge.

The Health Secretary concluded by urging people to remain vigilant but calm, continue practicing basic hygiene, and stay informed through official channels.