Pune: PMC Urges Mask Use Amid Mild Covid Uptick; Advises Caution, Not Panic
Pune, 29th May 2025: With a marginal rise in Covid-19 cases, the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has advised residents showing symptoms such as fever, cold, or cough to wear masks and practice caution, particularly in public spaces.
As part of its preparedness, PMC has formed a 14-member expert committee to monitor the situation and recommend timely interventions should infections surge further. The civic body emphasized that there is no cause for alarm but urged residents to remain vigilant.
“We are observing a mild increase in Covid cases, but there is no reason to panic,” said Dr Nina Borade, PMC’s Chief Health Officer. “People with flu-like symptoms are being advised to wear masks, and those with existing health conditions should avoid large gatherings as a preventive step.”
The PMC also directed private healthcare providers to exercise restraint in treatment protocols. “Doctors must refrain from prescribing antiviral drugs and antibodies to asymptomatic Covid-positive patients who don’t have comorbidities,” the civic body said in its advisory. Additionally, steroids should not be prescribed to outpatient department (OPD) patients with influenza-like illness unless absolutely necessary, Dr Borade added.
On Tuesday, PMC reported nine new Covid-19 cases within city limits. In response, local hospitals have been instructed to send positive samples to B J Medical College for genome sequencing, a move aimed at monitoring potential new variants.
“In cases where Severe Acute Respiratory Infection (SARI) is suspected, RTPCR testing should only be conducted if recommended by the patient’s family physician,” Dr Borade explained.
Statewide, health officials reported six Covid-related deaths so far this month. On Wednesday, the Kalyan-Dombivli Municipal Corporation confirmed an additional fatality — a 67-year-old stroke survivor — bringing the total number of Covid deaths in Maharashtra this month to seven.
Authorities have reiterated the importance of responsible behavior and urged citizens not to spread misinformation. The situation is being closely watched, with further guidelines expected if the trend continues.
