PANJIM: The Expert Committee on COVID-19 management has cautioned the State government against making Goa mask-free in view of the fourth wave of the pandemic, which is likely to hit in June.
The expert members held a meeting on Monday and unanimously resolved to recommend the government that mask should be mandatory precaution at least till mid-July.
Speaking to media persons post meeting, Goa Medical College and Hospital, Bambolim Dean Dr Shivanand Bandekar said that expert members are of clear view that we should not put guards down.
“In view of fourth wave prediction, mask should be advisable till mid July. We have decided to make recommendation to the government,” Bandekar said.
Chief Minister Dr Pramod Sawant had said that the government intends to make State mask-free and District collectors are working on the guidelines.
Meanwhile, Bandekar said that it is not possible to predict as when the fourth wave will hit the State.
“We have to prepare our self for June-July. These are monsoon time and will see many cases of respiratory and cold,” he said.
Bandekar said that Health Secretary also took review of infrastructure and medical availability in case of emergency.
