Bhubaneswar, 2 June (H.S.): The number of active COVID-19 cases in Odisha has risen to 15, prompting the state Health Department to issue an advisory urging the public to exercise caution. The figure, which previously stood at 12, has seen a slight uptick, though officials have emphasized that the situation remains under control.

According to the Health Department, there is currently no indication of a significant surge. Testing is being conducted on symptomatic individuals, and the positivity rate remains low. “There is no cause for alarm at this point. Testing is selective and the overall situation is well within control,” a senior health official stated.

In light of the developments, citizens have been advised to remain cautious, particularly in public and crowded areas. The department has reiterated the importance of wearing face masks, using hand sanitizers, maintaining hand hygiene, and avoiding unnecessary gatherings.

The advisory comes ahead of the annual Puri Rath Yatra, one of the largest religious congregations in the country. Recognizing the potential health risk during the festival, the state government has scheduled a high-level review meeting in Puri. The meeting will involve top officials from various departments, including health, administration, and law enforcement, to assess preparedness and determine appropriate health protocols for the event.

Final decisions regarding crowd control, emergency response mechanisms, and safety guidelines will be based on expert recommendations and the evolving COVID-19 scenario.

Authorities have urged the public not to become complacent and to continue adhering to safety measures. With the Rath Yatra drawing lakhs of devotees, the government is aiming to strike a balance between tradition and public health safety.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda