Original Research Paper

A Situational Analysis Of Social Distancing And Use Of Face Masks, Among The People In The Srinagar (red Zone District Of Kashmir Division, Ut Of J&k).

Abstract :

Introduction: With symptomatic treatment available and vaccine to be yet available to general population at present, prevention is the only resource in the hands of the global governments for handling the COVID 19 pandemic. Social Distancing, and use of face masks in public places, are globally recognised as two vital components of the preventive strategy for control of COVID 19 pandemic and slowing down the transmission of SARS Cov-2. Methodology:It was a cross sectional study, conducted within Srinagar district of Kashmir Division of UT J&K during the 2nd lockdown announced in April which was declared with some relaxations for essential services in one hundred randomly selected locations within the city especially around the food outlets, bank, grocery stores, mohalla centres within the red zones which had been allowed to operate during the lock down.RESULTS: Of the total 895 persons observed mask use was seen in 67.3%. Majority were making use of woven fabric masks (33.6%) followed by 23.2% (all women) using headcover as mask & 19.5% using surgical masks. 11.2% had cloth masks. Reasons for not wearing the masks were that people didnt feel the necessity of wearing masks in 68.4% whereas 20.5% reported discomfort on wearing masks. Social distancing was least observed by majority 65% (N=582) where as 28.8% (N=258) & 6.1% (N=55) were maintaining atleast 1 metre or >2 metre distance respectively.CONC LUSION: Robust IEC with reinforcement about the preventive measures & implementation of same by gaining confidence of community leaders with their active involvement can avert large morbidity & mortality from COVID-19 till an effective vaccine becomes available & accessible to masses at large.SUMMARY: The study was taken up to attain idea about the practices of people towards preventive measures advocated for prevention of SARS CoV-2 infection during the time of lockdown to prevent community spread.

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