Now, masks mandatory in medical facilities across Himachal Pradesh

The Health Department has made wearing of masks mandatory for everyone in all health facilities across the state. Following the rise in Covid-19 cases across the country and the detection of the first case in the state on Tuesday, the department has become more alert and has issued a detailed advisory to curb the possible spread of the disease.

The advisory has strongly recommended the use of masks in crowded places, especially for senior citizens, children and individuals with co-morbid conditions. The department has also asked people to maintain social distancing in crowded public places and maintain hygiene, which include frequent washing of hands with soap and sanitizer.

Individuals experiencing influenza like symptoms (cough, cold and fever) should promptly report to the nearest health facility for a medical check-up and avoid close contact with others, particularly with vulnerable groups such as the elderly, young children and pregnant women.

A few days back, the National Health Mission had issued directions for ensuring functional readiness of hospitals with facilities, including beds, oxygen supply, ventilators, oxygen concentrators, PSA plants, antibiotics, essential drugs, consumables and other logistics.