Omicron Variant: Odisha CM reviews COVID situation, appeals to everyone to be alert and follow safety norms

Bhubaneswar: Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik appealed to everyone to be alert and follow safety norms to avoid COVID infection.

While reviewing the COVID situation of the State, Patnaik today said that the World Health Organisation has warned that the new virus variant ‘Omicron Variant’ poses ‘very high’ global risk and may lead to surges with severe consequences. Many countries in Europe have been experiencing increasing infections in recent weeks.

“Odisha has adopted a cautious approach towards the pandemic from the beginning. We have been able to successfully control the first and second waves of Covid in spite of challenging situations. We are now battle-hardened and I am sure we will be able to successfully tackle this resurgence as well,” he said.

He further said, “We have to reactivate all our protocols and keep the Covid facilities and personnel on high alert. I would like to hear from the Health department about the emerging situation and the related preparations.”

“We have to enforce the Covid safety protocols strictly. I urge the DGP to continue the good work done by the Police since the first wave and enforce strictly,” he added.

The Chief Minister said that the I&PR department should start a new awareness campaign to sensitise the citizens to follow norms of face mask, hand hygiene and social distancing.

He also advised the Collectors to involve all sections of the society including the PRI Members, Mission Shakti groups, etc. and ensure awareness and enforcement. “This new wave of Covid virus spread seems to be more infectious and therefore, make sure everyone takes it seriously,” the CM directed.

“I appeal to all the people of Odisha to be alert and follow the Covid safety norms and please cooperate with the enforcement machinery,” Patnaik requested.