Infectious disease specialist Maia Butsashvili has criticized the recent initiative to ban the wearing of medical masks in public places, calling the decision misguided, particularly during the active season for respiratory illnesses. In a post on social media, Butsashvili emphasized that such restrictions could pose health risks, especially for vulnerable groups.
“Banning medical masks in public places, especially during this season, when respiratory viruses are on the rise, is wrong,” Butsashvili wrote. “This is especially problematic for people with chronic diseases, for whom the flu and other respiratory infections can lead to serious complications.” She added that individuals with underlying conditions might need to visit public spaces for essential reasons, and preventing them from taking protective measures could endanger their health.
Her comments come amid plans by the ruling Georgian Dream party to introduce legislative amendments to the Administrative Offenses Code and the Criminal Code. According to Irakli Kirtskhalia, leader of the parliamentary majority, the proposed changes would impose administrative imprisonment of up to 15 days for participants in gatherings or demonstrations who wear face masks, carry tear gas or other hazardous substances, block roads, or erect temporary structures. If the violator is an organizer, the penalty could extend to 20 days.
