Bhubaneswar: With a possible cyclone looming over Odisha, the state health department on Monday directed officials across vulnerable districts to remain on high alert and ensure uninterrupted services. As a precautionary measure, leave for officials has been cancelled, and control rooms have been activated at both state and district levels to monitor the situation round the clock.Reviewing preparedness at a meeting in Kharabela Bhavan, the department principal secretary-cum-commissioner, Aswathy S, instructed the district health authorities to maintain adequate stocks of essential medicines, medical supplies, halogen tablets and bleaching powder. The meeting was attended by senior officials and chief district medical and public health officers (CDM&PHOs) through virtual mode.The department asked Rapid Response Teams (RRTs) and Mobile Health Units to be kept ready to provide healthcare services in remote areas. Officials were also directed to intensify surveillance of diarrhoea, cholera, malaria, dengue and other water- and vector-borne diseases and ensure prompt treatment wherever required.Special focus has been placed on relief centres, where authorities have been asked to ensure safe drinking water, sanitation and basic medical care. The secretary also stressed the need to pay particular attention to vulnerable groups, including pregnant women, children and the elderly.During the review, district health officials briefed the department on the prevailing flood situation and measures being taken to maintain public health services. Aswathy emphasised close coordination with other departments and said safeguarding public health should remain the top priority during any emergency response.The health department said it is fully prepared to tackle any health-related challenges arising from the situation.