As flu and Covid cases have started rising again in Karnataka, the state government has asked people to start wearing masks, observe hygiene protocol and avoid crowded places.

Karnataka health minister K. Sudhakar told journalists that the government has decided to make it compulsory for all health staff to wear masks while they are working in hospitals.

The decision was announced on Monday after a high-level meeting to take stock of the situation.

“We have also advised children, people above 65 years of age who have comorbidities and pregnant women to take preventive measures and avoid unnecessary crowds and undertake hygiene protocols,” the minister added.