Mask up ahead of festive rush: Secunderabad Health officials

SECUNDERABAD: With large gatherings expected for two upcoming festivals — Bonalu and Ganesh Chaturthi — health officials are cautioning people to wear masks. As preparations are already in full-swing, officials feel the faster Covid-related precautions are put in place, the better.
While the deputy district medical and health officer (DMHO), H Raj Kumari, said that there are no positive cases being reported in rapid antigen tests (RAT) currently in Secunderabad Cantonment, she warned that cases are on the rise in the state.After a gap of nearly three months, the mask rule has been reinstated again, said the official. In the Cantonment, the health department car- ries out 20 to 30 RAT tests a day at all five urban health centres.
Speaking about the crucial juncture in the fight against the pandemic, Kumari said that unless people wear masks for the next six months, cases may rise, especially in light of the festivals. Bonalu is known to draw hundreds of women-folk at temples across the city. Similarly, Ganesh immersion witnesses large processions and gatherings.