Health Ministry Issues Guidelines to Contain Covid-19 Infection During Upcoming Festive Season
GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 9th Oct. The Union Health Ministry has issued guidelines to the states and union territories regarding the prevention of Covid-19 infection in the upcoming festivals.
According to the new guidelines, there will be no mass gathering in areas identified as containment zones and districts reporting more than 5 percent (positivity rate) cases. In districts with an infection rate of 5 percent and less, assembly will be allowed with prior permission and limited people.
The Health Ministry said that exemptions and restrictions will be imposed on the basis of the infection rate of the weekly case in the states. The states will closely monitor the infection cases daily in all districts to identify any early warning signs and accordingly ensure adherence to restrictions and COVID appropriate behaviour.
The government has said that publicity should be made to prevent people from traveling and socializing. Provision of “online darshan” and virtual gatherings will be encouraged. Apart from this, all rituals like Putla Dahan, Durga Puja Pandal, Dandiya, Garba and Chhath Puja should be symbolic.
According to the guidelines, the number of people allowed to participate in the meetings/processions should be strictly followed. Also use of separate entry and exit points and common prayer mats at places of worship, “Prasad”, sprinkling of holy water etc. should be avoided. The 9-day Navratri festival began on Thursday with the implementation of COVID-19 safety rules across the country.
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