JAMMU: As a precautionary measure against coronavirus , Rajouri district magistrate Mohammad Nazir Sheikh on Sunday imposed Section 144 in the district. Under the order, gathering and assembly of more than five persons has been restricted for a period of one month. Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB) has issued an advisory for non-resident Indians and foreigners, urging them not to visit the shrine for 28 days after landing in India, said an official spokesperson for the board.The Jammu and Kashmir administration had, on Saturday, imposed restrictions under Section 144 in four districts of the Union Territory — Budgam, Shopian, Ramban and Kishtwar.Complete thermal scanning of all pilgrims has been made mandatory at Tarakote, Banganga and Katra helipads. All establishments of the shrine board are being disinfected at least four times a day. “Besides, domestic visitors having symptoms like cough, heavy fever and breathing problems are also advised to reschedule or postpone their visit to the shrine. The advisories are also being announced on audio systems throughout the trek from Katra to the Bhawan for creating awareness about coronavirus,” the spokesperson added.SMVDSB CEO Ramesh Kumar said help desks have been set up at Katra railway station, helipad, enquiry and reservation centre at Niharika Complex and self-declaration forms have been made mandatory for pilgrims visiting from affected countries.Till Sunday, a total of 2,157 people including those who had come in contact with suspected coronavirus patients have been put under surveillance in Jammu and Kashmir. So far, 168 people have completed their 28-day surveillance period. Only two cases have tested positive in the Union Territory until now. In Jammu & Kashmir, 1,829 people are under home quarantine, 29 in hospital quarantine and 131 under home surveillance. Till now, 101 samples have been sent for testing, of which 87 tested as negative while reports of 12 cases are awaited.As per an advisory issued by Rajouri DM on Sunday, medical masks should not be used by healthy persons without any symptoms because it creates a false sense of security that can lead to neglecting other essential measures such as washing hands. “In fact, erroneous use of masks or continuous use of a disposable mask for longer than 6 hours or repeated use of the same mask may actually increase the risk of getting an infection.” Stressing on social distancing, the advisory urged people not to panic and avoid unnecessary travel, use of public transport, crowded places and large gatherings.