The Maharashtra government is compiling research for the state to comprehend if there can be a relief to citizens on wearing a mask. The state is speaking to COVID-19 experts from the State and Centre on the same.
State Public Health Minister Rajesh Tope answered the media saying that there is no such discussion or decision from the government on no masks throughout. The UK model is being studied to check if the same can be applied in Maharashtra, he had claimed.
There soon might be a relaxation on wearing a mask in private spaces like cinemas, halls, etc, claimed accounts. By the end of February, every establishment might be allowed to function full-time without restrictions, Mumbai Mayor Kishori Pednekar had cited earlier.
Dr Harish Chafle, Senior Consultant - Pulmonology and Critical Care at Global Hospital, Parel, Mumbai shared his insights on the ongoing debate about face masks. Chafle said, "In this pandemic what has protected the spread of the novel coronavirus is wearing masks. It has been proven beyond doubt that masks prevent the spread of the virus if worn properly. There are countries who have eased the mask restrictions, but it will be too early for us to think like them."
Chafle added that there will be a risk of infection even after achieving 100 per cent vaccination as one is not sure how an individual's body is going to develop antibodies.
Specific to Mumbai, considering the crowd in the local trains and other modes of public transport, the expert is of the opinion that it will definitely be not a good idea to go mask free in the island city so soon. This is especially considering that the city has not achieved 100 per cent vaccination and certain restrictions are still in place.
On being asked about the measures to protect oneself after going mask free, Chafle responded, "It will be the same with the use of hand sanitiser, having a proper high protein diet and regular physical exercise".
From an expert's point of view, Chafle believes that we should not go mask free as of now. He remarks, "First let all the restrictions go away gradually while COVID-19 appropriate behaviour still is followed. We should see how the virus behaves when restrictions are completely eased out."
Chafle also threw light on the physiological ramifications of going mask-free in the state, he mentions, "If we go mask free then there will chaos in the public and it can create problems. Also since we are used to seeing people with masks, suddenly going mask-free will make it a challenge to identify people."
Also Read: Omicron Scare: This Latest COVID-19 Variant Continues To Rule Over The Mumbaikars
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