Omicron Variant: Odisha’s Khurda Makes Masks Mandatory To Check COVID Spread

Bhubaneswar: Stepping up measures to check the spread of COVID-19 and infections, the Khurda district administration has announced to impose fine on people venturing out of their home maskless.

Khurda Collector on Thursday directed for imposition of fine on those not wearing mask at public places in the district. The authorities concerned have been directed to fine violators of COVID-19 protocols.

On the other hand, night curfew will be stricter, with the officers on duty to ensure closure of shops after 10 pm, the time when curfew begins.

With the city witnessing a floating population and flight services open, the state government is not willing to take any chances. On the day, first two cases of Omicron in India were detected in Karnataka tested positive for the virus. Both cases have travel history to South Africa.

“All Omicron related cases are found to have mild symptoms so far. No severe symptoms have been noticed in all such cases, both in the country and abroad. The WHO has said that the virus’ emerging evidence is being studied,” said Lav Agarwal, Joint Secretary, Union Health Ministry, adding that around 29 countries across the world have reported 373 cases of Omicron so far.