Astana residents advised to wear masks amid seasonal rise in respiratory infections

Tengrinews.kz — Health authorities have recommended that residents and visitors in Astana wear masks, especially in crowded areas, the National Center for Public Health reported.
Since October 1, all medical institutions in the capital have introduced a mandatory mask requirement due to an increase in seasonal respiratory illnesses, said Aigul Katrenova, head of the Department for Infectious Disease Control at the Ministry of Health.
While wearing masks in public spaces such as shopping centers and government service offices remains voluntary, doctors strongly advise doing so if individuals have symptoms like coughing, a runny nose, or fever.

“Considering the epidemic season, we recommend using masks in all public settings,” said Manar Smagul, Deputy Chair of the National Center for Public Health. “If you have respiratory symptoms and must leave home, you should wear a mask. Even if you are healthy, wearing one in crowded places such as shopping centers or government offices is encouraged. We continue to monitor the situation.”

Smagul noted that current infection rates remain within seasonal norms and that there are no grounds yet for a citywide mask mandate. However, health experts emphasize that mask use remains advisable during the ongoing rise in respiratory infections.