Odisha Makes Mask Wearing Mandatory In Public

People in Odisha are advised to cover mouth and nose with a face mask or handkerchief or any other piece of cloth in at least two layers can also be used for the purpose.

Indian artist Sudarsan Pattnaik puts some final touches as he makes a sand sculpture depicting people wearing protective facemasks with a message reading 'United against corona virus' at Puri beach in Puri. FILE PIC/AFP.

Odisha, April 7:  In a move to contain the spread of Covid 19 virus, Odisha has made it mandatory for the public to wear masks whenever they venture out of the home. According to the order from the Revenue and Disaster Management Department, Odisha, a face mask or use of cloth in “at least two layers” will be effective from April 9. "The general public is directed to cover their mouth and nose with any available form of the mask while stepping out of the house for any purpose. A handkerchief or any other piece of cloth in at least two layers can also be used for the purpose, until further orders," stated the official order. The order went to state that the disease is “assuming grave threat to the health of the general public in the state" and the virus is "believed to be spreading through droplets." It added that masks have proved to be extremely beneficial in controlling and containment of the spread as witnessed from global.  Hence it is crucial to ensure strict social distancing and isolation measures to contain the spread of Covid-19. Apart from this, the state government has asked district municipal to not allow any cluster formation and also ensure the use of masks or clothes including handkerchiefs, bandanas, gamuchha, dupatta etc. by public venturing out of their houses. Although, the government came out with advisory on masks as the country witnessed rush for mask busying stating that everyone need not wear a mask. Only those should only wear a mask under three scenarios, if you have symptoms like fever, cough, and difficulty in breathing, in case you are caring for a COVID-19 infected or suspected person or you are a health worker attending patients with respiratory problems