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AMS questions decision to relax face mask laws

19 Apr 2022

The Association of Medical Specialists (AMS) today (19) questioned the newly appointed Minister of Health, Prof. Channa Jayasumana’s decision to relax laws pertaining to use of face masks.   “We feel that this is a retrograde step. While walking alone without a mask may be justified, there is a substantial risk of contracting Covid in mass outdoor gatherings too,” the AMS said.  The Association pointed out that even though Covid numbers are down, there are new strains circulating (e.g., Omicron BA.4 and BA.5 in South Africa) in different regions of the world, with potential to cause another wave of infections.   “It is therefore unwise to drop our guard, especially with the current situation in the country. There are daily gatherings of people throughout the country, and there is a scarcity of medicines and other medical reagents,” the statement noted.  Accordingly, the AMS warned that an increase of Covid infections coupled with the inability to provide medical support for those in need would cause havoc, further undermining the deteriorating economic situation in the country.  The AMS, therefore, urges, that the decision on masks be rescinded forthwith, especially in outdoor gatherings, and the people are advised to take all measures to prevent Covid infection.


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