As Kerala sees rise in Covid cases, Karnataka Health Minister orders senior citizens to wear masks

The Karnataka government  asked those above 60-years of age, with comorbidities, and symptoms of cough, phlegm and fever to mandatorily wear face masks, in the wake detection of a case of COVID-19 sub-variant JN.1 in neighbouring Kerala.

Karnataka’s Minister for Health and Family Welfare Dinesh Gundu Rao on Monday advised senior citizens and those with comorbidities to wear masks. His remarks came after a rise in Covid-19 cases in Kerala and other states.

According to Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao, officials have been asked to take steps such as increasing testing among persons with similar symptoms and suspected cases, as well as stepping up monitoring in border regions.

He noted that as the situation is being constantly watched, there is now no need for any restrictions on people's freedom of movement or ability to assemble, and the government would soon provide an alert.

The health minister told reporters in Kodagu, Karnataka, that there's no reason to fear. He said, "We had a meeting to discuss what needs to be done, We will shortly release an advisory soon. Masks are required for persons over 60, those with cardiac issues, and those with concomitant conditions."

"Those above 60-years of age and those with comorbidities like issues related to heart, kidney among others, and those with cough, phlegm and fever should mandatorily wear masks. We are communicating this to the public. Also we have asked our hospitals and health centres to be prepared. There should be more surveillance in border districts like -- Kodagu, Dakshina Kannada, Chamarajanagara -- which share border with Kerala," he added.

The Minister stated that district health officials had performed a simulated drill at all hospitals to assess their readiness. Among other things, the drill involved counting the number of beds, ventilators, oxygen supply, masks, testing, and personal protective equipment (PPE) kits that are needed in an emergency.