Bhubaneswar: Five new COVID-19 cases were detected in Odisha in the last 24 hours, taking the total number of Coronavirus infected persons in the state in the current spell to 19.
However, the number of active COVID-19 cases stands at 18 following the recovery of one infected person, sources said on Sunday.
The health condition of all the COVID affected persons is stated to be stable as they are showing mild symptoms. They are all undergoing treatment in home isolation.
On the surge in COVID cases in the state, Public Health Director Niranjan Mishra said the number of COVID tests has increased. All the new infected people have been kept in isolation at their homes.
Stating that the situation is under observation, he said there is no need to panic due to the surge in COVID cases caused by the JN.1 sub-variant of Omicron strain. People need to remain alert, avoid visiting crowded place, and mask up if required.
Especially those showing symptoms of cold, cough and fever should avoid visiting crowded places for new year celebrations, he said, adding that these people should confine themselves to their homes and celebrate zero-night indoors.
The Covid cases are expected to witness a spike and the central government has also advised states to stay prepared. Mishra said the state government has written to hospitals to remain prepared and make necessary arrangements in the hospitals.