The State government guidelines for feared COVID-19 surge issued on Tuesday, advise not only senior citizens, those with comorbidities, and those with covid-like symptoms to wear masks in public places, but also advises everyone to wear masks in crowded public spaces with low ventilation. It also mandates masks in public spaces for pregnant women and lactating mothers.
“At crowded places, particularly, if not well-ventilated, wearing a mask is advised. When travelling overseas, stay vigilant and adopt relevant travel precautions, such as wearing masks at the airport and inside aircraft, and avoiding crowded areas with poor ventilation,” the guidelines states.
The advisory issued by Commissioner of Health and Family Welfare Services Randeep D. states: “All elderly (60 years and above), comorbid (particularly with kidney, heart, liver ailments, etc.), pregnant women and lactating mothers, when outdoor, shall wear face masks, and strictly avoid visiting closed, poorly ventilated spaces and crowded areas.”
Those with respiratory symptoms like fever, cough, cold, and running nose shall seek medical consultation early, and, they should wear face masks (covering nose and mouth), and avoid visiting closed, poorly ventilated spaces, and crowded areas.
The government advisory requests people to follow good personal hygiene, including frequent hand washing. “When unwell, stay at home, and minimise contact with other people, especially seniors and those who are vulnerable.
The health department said that given the current Covid-19 situation, the emergence of the JN.1 subvariant, ongoing winter conditions, and anticipated year-end and New Year festivities, the public is urged to follow precautionary measures recommended by the Covid-19 State Technical Advisory Committee (TAC).
