Bhubaneswar: Five new COVID-19 cases were reported in Odisha on Wednesday, sparking concerns about a potential resurgence.According to Health Department sources, four cases have been detected in Bhubaneswar, and one in Khurda district. Those infected include four males and a female. Authorities have started contact tracing and containment efforts, with the infected individuals isolated and under medical care.Health officials have urged the public to stay cautious, follow COVID-19 protocols, and report symptoms immediately.While cases are low, the state is closely monitoring the situation to curb further spread.On May 22, a 75-year-old man tested positive for the virus, a first after a gap of two-and-a-half years. He is undergoing treatment at a private hospital with several comorbid conditions. His sample was also sent for genome sequencing in the backdrop of the WHO’s recent update listing LP.8.1 and XEC as the two SARS-CoV-2 variants currently under monitoring due to their increasing global prevalence.As per the Covid dashboard of the Odisha Government, 26 cases were detected in the state on November 8, 2022.
