Bhubaneswar, July 29: The Odisha Health Department has gone on high alert to strengthen preparedness and response measures amid the worsening flood situation across the state. A high-level review meeting, chaired by Health Secretary Ashwathy S., was held with the Director of Health Services and Chief District Medical Officers (CDMOs) through video conferencing to assess the situation and coordinate emergency measures.

The Health Department has directed all CDMOs to remain on alert and ensure uninterrupted healthcare services in flood-affected areas. Special emphasis has been placed on the evacuation of pregnant women to safer locations and providing timely medical assistance to people stranded by floodwaters.

Medical teams have been kept on standby and will be deployed to affected districts as required. Officials have also been instructed to maintain adequate stocks of anti-snake venom in view of the increased risk of snakebite incidents during floods. The department said COVID-19 precautions will continue to be observed in accordance with the Central Government's guidelines.

The state has also decided to extend special healthcare support to vulnerable groups, including pregnant women, children, senior citizens, and persons with disabilities. Regular health check-ups will be conducted at relief camps, while women nearing childbirth will be shifted to the nearest medical facilities whenever necessary.

With rising river levels disrupting connectivity in several districts, the Health Department has decided to seek assistance from the Fire Services Department to ensure ambulance access to cut-off areas. Authorities have been directed to deploy MBBS doctors at all Primary Health Centres (PHCs), arrange backup generators, and install pump sets at waterlogged hospitals to ensure uninterrupted medical services.

District administrations have also been asked to maintain adequate stocks of essential medicines, Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS), bleaching powder, halogen tablets for water purification, anti-snake venom, and other emergency medical supplies. The department will intensify efforts to ensure safe drinking water, sanitation, food safety, and public awareness in flood-hit regions.

CDMOs and Public Health Officers (PHOs) have been instructed not to leave their district headquarters during the emergency. The Director of Public Health's control room has been tasked with maintaining constant communication with affected districts and coordinating timely response measures.