Bhubaneswar, July 13 -- Odisha has stepped up COVID-19 surveillance along its border districts after reports of two COVID-related deaths in neighbouring Andhra Pradesh. The state health department has directed officials to remain on high alert ahead of the annual Rath Yatra.

The Director of Public Health, Dr. Rabindra Nath Mishra, on Monday said instructions have been issued to the Chief District Medical Officers (CDMOs) of all Odisha districts sharing a border with Andhra Pradesh. They have been asked to intensify surveillance and ensure that all suspected COVID-19 cases are tested at district headquarters hospitals.

According to the health department, Odisha has maintained continuous COVID-19 surveillance despite the decline in cases...