The department warned that the safety regulations are being violated and non-compliance of wearing masks in gatherings and public places is posing a major challenge.

Health Secretary J Radhakrishnan on Saturday visited several public places in Royapuram and emphasized on the need for wearing masks among the people. He stated that though the number of COVID-19 cases has declined sharply in the State, negligence in following the safety standards can lead to clusters and outbreaks of COVID-19.

The officials with the Directorate of Public Health and Preventive Medicine said that people do not fear the infection anymore as the cases have come down. “People state various reasons for not complying to safety protocols and wearing masks such as difficulty in breathing, sweating and improper fitting. Only a few people, mainly those who fear police and penalty are seen with masks. Moreover, the masks are usually tied around the neck, or below the mouth or nose, making the purpose of the masks futile,” said a senior official from the Directorate of Public Health and Preventive Medicine.

The deputy directors across the State are working on a ground-level awareness drive to emphasize on the need of wearing masks and regular hand washing. While many districts have less than 50 active cases, the relaxations are coupled with negligence in safety standards and hence the State Health officials are intensifying the check on safety measures against the pandemic.