SHILLONG, APR 4: The state government constituted medical expert committee has highly recommended the use of masks as a necessary preventive mechanism to fight COVID-19 pandemic.
In a meeting held with the state’s chief secretary MS Rao on Saturday, the members of the committee also deliberated upon the World Health Organization (WHO) recommendation on the effectiveness of use of mask in preventing community spread.
Rao in a statement also said the members emphasized that the mask can be effective only if it is followed along with hand hygiene by using hand sanitizer or soap and also maintaining social distancing. Touching of the front end of the masks should be avoided to prevent any contamination.
The committee also decided to give wide publicity on this based on the advisory given by the Principal Scientific Advisor to the Government of India.
He said it was also decided to advise that the general public can actually stitch their own two layered masks at home made of cotton.
It is to be ensured that the mask covers nose, mouth and chin areas of the face. The manual for stitching and effective usage is available on www.psa.gov.in and the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare website.
Meanwhile, the chief secretary informed that the state government has entrusted the Department of Commerce & Industries to produce double-layered reusable cotton masks locally with the help of SHGs and NGOs.
He said all tailoring units under the department have been mobilized to produce 3 lakh masks by the April 10 and will continue to produce to meet the needs of the state.
“Orders have placed to procure 10 lakh masks within a 10-day period from outside the state to ensure availability to all,” Rao said.
He further urged all citizens to use mask in public places and follow the hand hygiene, cough etiquette and social distancing protocols.
By Our Reporter
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