Bhubaneswar, 16 January (H.S.):A high-level review meeting was held today under the chairmanship of Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr Mukesh Mahaling to assess the current status of the Nipah virus and the state’s preparedness to deal with any potential situation. The meeting was attended by Health Department Commissioner-cum-Secretary Aswathi 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.

Speaking after the meeting, Dr Mahaling said that the review was convened as a precautionary measure following reports of Nipah virus cases in neighbouring West Bengal. He clarified that no suspected or confirmed Nipah virus cases have been detected in Odisha so far. The state government, he said, remains fully alert and is closely monitoring the situation. He assured that the Health Department is fully prepared to respond to any eventuality and urged the public not to panic.

The Health Minister directed all border districts to maintain heightened vigilance, ensure prompt detection and reporting of suspected cases, and keep adequate stocks of medicines, PPE kits and essential medical equipment in hospitals. He also emphasised the need to strengthen public awareness campaigns to prevent misinformation and ensure timely reporting of symptoms.

The meeting reviewed in detail the state’s existing health preparedness, precautionary measures, disease surveillance mechanisms, sample testing facilities, isolation arrangements and treatment protocols. Officials were instructed to keep all systems and resources in a state of readiness to effectively manage any emergency situation.

The Health Department reiterated that all necessary preventive and preparedness measures are being taken well in advance and that public safety remains the top priority of the state government.

---------------

Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda