Covid returns to Odisha, one case reported after a gap of 20 days

By Nalini Sahu

Bhubaneswar, Dec. 23: Odisha on Saturday reported one Covid-19 positive case on Saturday, amid the scare over the spurt in Covid-19 cases and the detection of new sub-variant JN.1 in some states in the country.

As per official data, the fresh Covid-19 positive case was detected after a brief gap of 20 days. The last positive case of Covid-19 infection in the state was reported on December 3, 2023.

Hours after detection of the fresh Covid-19 case, the state government advised the people, mostly to the elderly and those with comorbidities, to wear face masks while going out and avoid visiting crowded places.

According to noted health expert Dr Surya Prakash Choudhry, people need to be cautious as usually there is detection of new Covid-19 variants during this part of season between December and January.

“It appears that the next four to six weeks are crucial for everybody. Whenever any variant is reported, the infection usually peaks in several parts of the country,” said Choudhry.

Even though cases of infections might rise, there is no need to panic as all people are vaccinated. The data from Singapore and USA suggest that cases spike but the symptoms are mild. One new symptom is stomach-related disorder. People above 60 and above and other diseases need to remain alert. We need to switch to the use of masks and follow appropriate Covid protocols as there is the possibility of restricting visiting crowded places during the festive season,” said Dr Choudhry.