Speaking to reporters after inspecting the newly established compost yard at Narimedu in Pudukkottai, the Health Minister said, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami has introduced free mask distribution for the first time in the country.

“I thank the Chief Minister for this gesture on behalf of the health ministry of Tamil Nadu,” Vijaya Baskar said.

Stating that the number of COVID-19 tests has been increased in the State, the Health Minister said, this has also paved way for identifying the persons infected and providing treatment on time.

Meanwhile, the minister said that there was a good result in the plasma treatment for the patients. “So far 64 patients (57 from Chennai and 7 from Madurai) have recovered through the Plasma treatment and the State government has been appealing the people to encourage plasma donation,” he said.

The health department will consult doctors attached to the Vellore CMC hospital and the Vellore Government Medical College hospital on ways to reduce mortality among COVID-19 patients above 65 years suffering from obesity, blood pressure and diabetes, Health Secretary J Radhakrishnan announced on Saturday.

Speaking after a review of anti-COVID related activities along with collector A Shanmuga Sundaram, he said RT–PCT testing has been ramped up. Calling on the public to ensure continued use of masks, he said once the testing centres in Ranipet and Kanchipuram started functioning, the State would boast of test centres in all districts.