Patna: A high-level meeting was held at the Bihar Health Department on Monday to review the COVID-19 situation and assess the state’s preparedness in light of the emergence of new virus variants in the country.
The meeting, chaired by Development Commissioner and Additional Chief Secretary (Health) Pratyaya Amrit, an IAS officer of 1991 batch from Bihar cadre, took place at the department’s conference hall. Key officials, including Civil Surgeons from all districts, Principals and Superintendents of government medical colleges, and representatives from AIIMS Patna, IGIMS, RMRI, and ESIC Hospital, Bihta, participated via video conferencing.
No Need to Panic, Says Health ACS
Addressing concerns about the new COVID-19 variants, ACS Pratyaya Amrit assured that the state is fully prepared to handle any situation. He urged the public to stay alert but not panic, and emphasized the importance of awareness and caution.
The new variants – NB.1.8.1 and LF.7 – have been detected in India, as per data from the Indian SARS-CoV-2 Genomics Consortium (INSACOG). These variants are currently categorized as “under monitoring” by the World Health Organization (WHO). INSACOG, an initiative under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, monitors and studies mutations in COVID-19 strains through genome sequencing.
Directives Issued to Districts
ACS Amrit directed civil surgeons and medical college heads to step up surveillance, identify suspected cases, and ensure timely testing and reporting. “All districts must remain on high alert and be fully prepared for any potential developments,” he stated.
He further assured that the department has ensured adequate availability of testing kits, medicines, masks, oxygen, and other essential supplies. Emphasis was laid on transparency, accountability, effective coordination, and public awareness.
Officials Present
Among those present at the meeting were–
- Manoj Kumar Singh, Secretary, Health Department
- Dharmendra Kumar, Managing Director, Bihar Medical Services & Infrastructure Corporation Ltd. (BMSICL)
- Dr. Anupama Singh, Joint Secretary, Health Department
- Along with several other senior officials
The Health Department reiterated its commitment to proactive monitoring and timely response, reinforcing Bihar’s preparedness to manage any potential rise in COVID-19 cases linked to the new variants.
