Call to make masks mandatory for elderly

GEORGE TOWN: The government has been urged to make it mandatory for the elderly and those with underlying health problems to put on surgical masks when they are outdoors.

People’s Rights Organisation president S. Raveentharan said this is especially essential given the risk of a second wave of the Covid-19 pandemic.

He pointed out that several countries have already reported signs of a second or even third wave of the infection.

“Our country cannot afford another round of infections. The first wave has already caused major damage to the economy, disrupted the global supply chain and even led to a rise in the cost of living and healthcare,” he told theSun yesterday.

“Prevention is better than cure. It is essential that additional measures be enforced,” he added.

Sharing similar views are Pulau Tikus and Seri Delima assemblymen Chris Lee Chun Kit and Syerleena Abdul Rashid. Both have called for additional measures to curb the virus.