IN PICS: Haphazard disposal of used masks, gloves likely to emerge as major health and environment risk

KATHMANDU, Aug 6: The use of masks and gloves has increased following the outbreak of the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19). However, the failure to ensure proper disposal of these safety apparels is likely to pose a serious health risk in urban areas. 

Used masks and gloves are seen unattended almost everywhere including on the streets, drainage canals and footpaths and other public places in the Kathmandu Valley. Reluctance of the people to ensure proper disposal of these materials, experts say, could pose a serious threat to health safety in all cities with high density of population.

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Although there is no scientific evidence about the transmission of COVID-19 through used materials, the acts of throwing these materials randomly have certainly increased pollution in the city. There is also a high chance of the spread of other viral infections due to the haphazard disposal of these materials.

Here are some photos taken by Monika Malla, a Republica photojournalist, in different places of the Valley on Thursday.