Even though the Covid-19 pandemic is yet to be over, top health officials on Friday said the cases in a third wave might be much higher.
Health Services Director Dr Bijay Mohapatra said that while the State registered over 10,000 single-day infection during the second wave peak, figures may cross this mark in the third-round surge.
“The State Government is monitoring the situation on a day-to-day basis. The State witnessed over 10,000 daily cases during the second wave. Experts are predicting that the cases might cross that mark during the third wave. However, we are ready to face any exigencies,” said Mohapatra. Hailing the Government’s decision in issuing guidelines for the celebrations of Durga Puja and other pujas in mandaps and pandals during the festive seasons in August, September, October and November, Mohapatra said the restrictions were brought in the right time.
“The Health Department will continue surveillance as it was conducted during the first and second waves of Covid-19 pandemic. We are focussing on availability of vaccines, treatment facility and carrying out surveillance and contact tracing of positive people dedicatedly. In case third wave hits State, the Government is ready to face situation,” he said.“The Central Government has stated that festivals should be celebrated in accordance with Covid appropriate behaviour. The State Government will abide by those guidelines,” Mohapatra added.