AP govt to distribute over 16 cr masks to citizens to help check COVID-19

(Eds: Correcting headline)

Amaravati(AP), Apr 12 () In a first-of-its-kindinitiative, the Andhra Pradesh government will soon distributeover 16 crore facial masks to all citizens in the state forprotecting themselves from coronavirus.

Chief Minister Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy, who chaired ahigh-level review meeting at his residence on Sunday directedofficials to complete the mask distribution quickly.

The masks will give citizens protection (from the virus), a CMO release quoted the CM as saying.

The release said each person would be given three masks.

The state has a population of 5.3 crore and it is, thus,estimated that over 16 crore masks would be required fordistribution.

Special Chief Secretary (Health) K S Jawahar Reddy toldthe Chief Minister that a third round of door-to-door surveywas being undertaken and so far 1.43 crore households, out ofthe total 1.47 crore, have been covered.

While 32,349 cases have referred to the medical officers,9,107 have been recommended for testing, the Special CS.

The Chief Minister, however, suggested that tests beconducted on all the 32,349 people.

Jagan also wanted the health officials to focus onhigh-risk people, those suffering from diabetes, bloodpressure and also old-aged.

He wanted persons with coronavirus symptoms to beadmitted to hospitals and best treatment provided.

Reddy also directed the authorities to update theclusters and zones where the spread of COVID-19 was likely.

The Chief Minister wanted physical distancing strictlyfollowed at all places and people should not be allowed tomob.

Chief Secretary Nilam Sawhney, Principal Secretary M TKrishna Babu, Health Commissioner Katamaneni Bhaskar,Secretary Solomon Arokia Raj and other officials attended. DBVROH ROH