Because the virus has already earned itself the notorious distinction of being the fastest moving pandemic in history, the health ministry said social distancing measures imposed by people was vital in stopping the virus from spreading. Health ministry joint secretary Vineet Chaudhry said, ‘‘Because the virus is highly contagious, avoiding large crowds or social gatherings is essential. During Janmashtami, crowds will be there and the disease will spread.’’

He added, “What can the government do? People have to take their own decisions. We have already urged people to avoid crowded places. People have to take social distancing measures.”

Meanwhile, in a meeting with all state drug controllers, the health ministry has decided to undertake strict action against those hoarding face masks and illegally selling Tamiflu. Largescale raids are expected over the next few days to dig out illegal trade of the anti-influenza drug, most of which the government said were spurious.

“Retail sale of Tamilfu is not allowed. In our meeting with state drug controllers, we emphasized the need for greater vigil. Shortages won’t be tolerated. This is a public health crisis and a national emergency,” Chaudhry said.

He added that shortage of N95 masks had been reported and said these kind of masks were not recommended for the general public. “Any doctor who is recommending it is doing a great disservice. These masks have to be used only by those who are at risk during testing or collecting or during treatment. It is not for general public,” he said.

The official said even at the international airports, doctors and paramedical staff use only three-layered surgical masks. It is cheap and available in the market, he added. The ministry also held a meeting with generic drug companies like Hetero, Cipla, Ranbaxy and Roche to finalise the delivery schedule of stockpiles of Tamilfu.

Chaudhry said, “We already have a banking agreement with these companies under which they will at all times hold 100 kg stock of the raw material used to make Tamiflu. This will ensure that 7.2 million capsules are kept at all times and can be made available to the government by the company within a day’s notice. We don’t have to pay the companies for holding this stock for us.”

He added, “We will purchase the drugs on a competitive pricing basis with a shelf life of four to five years. By the end of the next two weeks, we will have a stockpile of 30 million capsules to treat 30 lakh people.” .