Bengaluru, 27th December 2022: Amid rising Covid cases in many countries, Karnataka issued a set of guidelines to be followed during celebrations. Earlier, it had made masks mandatory in public spaces.

According to the health ministry “All celebrations in connection with New Year’s Eve (31st Dec 2022), and New Year (1st Jan 2023) should be completed by 1 am on 1st Jan 2023 & 2nd Jan 2023 respectively.”

“All large assemblies shall be strictly outdoor and as far as possible in the day, avoiding chills of the late night and early morning. The prescribed capacity of the areas shall not be exceeded, particularly in the indoor areas (seating) like hotels, pubs, restaurants, clubs, resorts, etc.”

“Those with fever and/or respiratory symptoms like cough, running nose, etc. shall be referred to seek medical consultation. There shall be application of hand sanitizer to everyone in case of indoor events,”

“In case of large-scale events, the organizers shall ensure an arrangement/ linkage with the nearest specialty hospital for ambulance services and shifting the sick person quickly from the venue.”

“The organizers, managers and service staff shall preferably receive booster dose vaccination. However, two-dose vaccination is expected.”

State health minister Dr K Sudhakar has clarified that no event has been restricted as of now and that political parties could also continue their planned rallies, tours, and events, as long as they abide by the ministry’s guidelines.