Is it time for India to relax its mask mandate?

Which countries are easing mask norms?

Most European Union (EU) countries except the UK, Canada, Singapore, Germany and all US states except Hawaii have relaxed mandates regarding wearing masks in outdoor settings. However, this does not mean that they are completely eliminating masks. In the UK, although masks are not required in outdoor settings or on public transport, they are “strongly recommended” by health authorities. This is on individuals and private establishments. In Canada, masks are mandatory for children in schools, while some provincial governments have asked individuals and businesses to implement their own rules.

What is the rationale behind such decisions?

These decisions appear to be trade-offs made by the authorities. There are many studies that have shown that the risk of transmission of Kovid-19 from outside is low. Coronavirus spreads most easily in different environments such as indoors. Second, mask fatigue is starting to happen and many governments have realized that coercion doesn’t work. In addition, mask fatigue may prompt people to avoid wearing masks everywhere, including in high-risk settings. Therefore, policymakers believe that a more relaxed approach to mandates can ensure that people in high-risk settings, especially indoors, continue to wear masks.

Which countries have not relaxed the mandate?

Most Asian countries have yet to drop the mask mandate. Recently, countries such as Hong Kong and China saw a record increase in infections since the outbreak in 2019. South Korea, a country that has dealt with the pandemic efficiently, said this week that discarding masks at this time is “the last thing to worry about. About this”.

What is scientific evidence called?

Much of the published work on masks suggests that they played a role in reducing infections. However, these studies were done before vaccination was introduced. Masks prevent transmission and reduce risks at the community level. Organizations such as the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention believe that massive vaccination numbers have achieved that goal. In its revised guidance, the organization has recommended preventive measures based on the community in which a person lives.

What is India’s stand on the mask mandate?

India’s health secretaries have said that wearing masks at all times will be the new normal. Nevertheless, anecdotal evidence shows that mask compliance has declined in India. There are states like Maharashtra which are planning to relax the requirement of wearing masks. The state’s covid task force feels that the state has cut transmission due to mass vaccination. Kerala will lift the mask mandate in a phased manner. The Centre’s risk-averse approach can be rejected if state governments take their own decision.