Karnataka Urges Senior Citizens To Wear Masks As Covid-19 Cases Rise In Kerala

NEW DELHI: In response to the detection of the COVID-19 subvariant JN.1 in neighbouring Kerala, the Karnataka government has issued a directive urging individuals above 60 years of age, especially those with comorbidities and symptoms like cough, phlegm, and fever, to wear face masks. Karnataka's Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao announced these precautionary measures on Monday, emphasizing the need for increased testing among individuals exhibiting symptoms and heightened surveillance in border districts.

The health situation is under constant scrutiny, with officials emphasizing that, at present, there is no need to impose restrictions on movement or gatherings. Karnataka Minister Rao reassured the public, stating that the government is closely monitoring the situation and will issue advisories based on expert recommendations.

Emphasizing the importance of protection for vulnerable groups, Rao stated, "Those above 60 years and individuals with comorbidities, such as heart and kidney issues, should mandatorily wear masks." Hospitals and health centres have been instructed to be on high alert, particularly in border districts like Kodagu, Dakshina Kannada, and Chamarajanagara, which share borders with Kerala.