Public Health Officials Urge Precautions as Mask Usage Rises Again

Hyderabad: With a noticeable rise in upper respiratory tract infections, including influenza, viral fevers, and pneumonia, doctors and healthcare staff in Hyderabad have resumed wearing face masks in hospitals. They are also advising patients and their attendants to do the same.
Although the current wave of viral fevers is not as severe as the peak of the Covid-19 pandemic when masks were mandatory, many individuals have started wearing masks again as a precautionary measure to prevent airborne transmission.
In response to the situation, the Directorate of Public Health (DPH), Telangana, has issued guidelines urging the public to protect themselves from airborne infections like viral fevers, conjunctivitis, and influenza by adhering to proper cough etiquette.
Precautions for Airborne Infections:
- Avoid shaking hands and sharing food, water, or clothes with infected individuals.
- Wash hands frequently and use hand sanitizers often.
- Minimize hand contamination by avoiding contact with door handles, tabletops, and lift buttons.
- Cover your mouth while sneezing or coughing.
- Use disposable tissues if you have a cough or cold.
- If a fever persists for more than two or three days, consult a general physician.