By Sue-Ann Wayow
HEALTH Minister Terrence Deyalsingh says partygoers are not obligated to wear masks in private settings.
However, he is advising persons to do their own risk assessment when it comes to that measure, especially with the possibility of monkeypox arriving in Trinidad and Tobago.
Speaking at the Ministry of Health’s virtual media conference on Wednesday, Deyalsingh said since the demolition of the safe zone concept, the ministry was not insisting on the wearing of masks in certain settings.
He said, “You may recall in those days, we had the safe zone concept, and we have done away with all of those things. So, in these events, we are not insisting on masking. Things have evolved, things have changed as we come to the end of this phase of the acute Covid-19 pandemic.”
While most of the restrictions imposed due to the Covid-19 pandemic have been lifted, the mandatory mask-wearing in public spaces remain in place and Deyalsingh had said would remain in place till at least the end of next month.
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However, given the many photos and videos of persons enjoying themselves at fetes without wearing a mask, others have said it was unfair that the measure remains in place.
Deyalsingh said, “I know it is uncomfortable. I know people are just tired of adhering to public health measures. I get it, but this is what the world has brought upon us. It is our lot to bear and I think for the continued protection of loved ones, we need to be careful and weigh your risk as you party or engage in any social activity that may endanger yourself and your loved ones.”
And Chief Medical Officer Dr Roshan Parasram also pointed out that despite the recent large parties and the continuation of physical school, there was a 30 per cent decrease in week-on-week Covid-19 cases.
