New Delhi: The sudden lifting of Covid-19 appropriate behaviour and other related restrictions is not a good call as the pandemic is not over yet, Dr Sunila Garg, Member Lancet Commission and Covid-19 Task Force said on Saturday.

Dr Garg told news agency IANS that it is time for the world to integrate a more holistic approach on lifting restrictions on masks. “Mask doesn’t stop Covid infection only, but it also prevents other airborne infections, pollution and other respiratory illnesses,” she said. She added that removing mask mandates will bring the challenging burden of Tuberculosis and drug resistant TB as such incidents have been under control during past two years because of masks. Despite this sudden surge in Covid infection globally, India continues down trend.

Delhi lifts penalty for not wearing masks

The Delhi Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) has ordered the continued wearing of masks in public places, but no penalty will be imposed for not doing so. In its order, DDMA said that “now DDMA has decided that it is advisable for the public to wear masks in public places”, however, it advises its continued usage in crowded areas.

Mask cannot prevent another wave: Expert

Dr Jacob John, Epidemiologist at CMC Vellore, said that a mask can decrease the rate of infection but it cannot prevent another wave. A mask can’t prevent the new Covid variant from emerging. “Fines are improper ways of controlling the people. Masks do decrease respiratory secretions and protect the people, but it should be recommended,” said Dr John. He added that amask should be worn at crowded places as it not only prevents Covid infection but also pneumonia, allergies, pollutants and several others ailments.