Shimla, July 28
The Himachal Pradesh Government has made wearing masks in all Health institutions, mandatory for all persons, including health staff, patients, attendants and visitors.
A notification issued by the Health Secretary said that decision was taken after the surge of COVID – 19 cases in the State. A letter was issued by the Secretary of Health to all heads of Health institutions directing them to implement the direction immediately. The letter says that given the surge of Covid – 19 positive cases in the State, it is imperative to take all necessary measures to stop the transmission of the spread of infection in the community.
The government emphasises a five-fold strategy to contain the outbreak and orders to test – track – treat – vaccination and adhere to COVID – 19 appropriate behaviour.
Displaying concern over the sudden hike in Covid cases, the officer stated that people ignore the cardinal safety requirements such as wearing the mask and maintaining proper physical distance, which poses a severe threat to public health. COVID – 19 is surging and infecting the hospital staff, which may lead to disruption of service delivery. It is worth mentioning that about 15 doctors of Indra Gandhi Medical College Hospital Shimla and many other doctors of other health Institutions have contracted to Covid, affecting the OPD and indoor services of the state health Institution.
