Odisha Health Director Cautions Pregnant Women Amid Rubella Scare

Bhubaneswar: In response to the rubella scare in Nabarangpur district, Dr. Bijay Panigrahy, Director of Family Welfare, has issued a crucial advisory for pregnant women to stay vigilant against the virus.

Pregnant women have been urged to undergo measles and rubella (MR) tests if they experience fever symptoms accompanied by rashes, as newborns are particularly susceptible to the virus.

Recent cases include two children testing positive for measles and rubella in Tentulikhunti and Nandahandi blocks, both tribal-dominated areas despite being vaccinated. However, their health remains stable.

Eighteen individuals in these blocks had fever and rash symptoms, though their conditions are stable. Reassuringly, surveillance and immunization efforts are underway, with a focus on the affected age groups.

Dr. Panigrahy furthered that samples are being sent for scrub typhus, leptospirosis, and MR testing.