ISLAMABAD: Special Assistant to Prime Minister on Health Dr Zafar Mirza has warned that the coronavirus infections could spike again in the country.
Addressing a press conference in Islamabad today (Sunday), the special assistant informed that the coronavirus trend in other countries had shown that there could be a spike in cases again. “Countries like Spain, Iran, and United States had witnessed a resurgence in cases,” he added.
Commenting on the cases in Pakistan, Zafar Mirza asserted that the cases in Pakistan had peaked in mid-June and cases had been declining since then. “However, the country will now face two big challenges in the coming weeks, Eid-ul-Adha and Muharram,” he remarked.
He also pointed out the danger of the virus spreading during Eid celebrations. In this regard, he said that the government had learned from last Eid’s experience. “To avoid the danger, we have discussed standard operating procedures (SOPs) with provinces and adopted a national strategy,” he informed.
The special assistant further said that the government had strictly disallowed cattle markets being set up within the cities. “Cattle markets are allowed to be set up as far outside cities as possible,” he added.
Zafar Mirza urged the people to practice social distancing rules and follow SOPs while visiting cattle markets. “Wear a mask, maintain social distancing, and wash your hands frequently. The elderly or sick people should avoid visiting the markets,” he instructed.
He also urged people to opt for booking sacrificial animals online or for collective sacrifice. Referring to the prayers on Eid-ul-Adha he informed that SOPs based on a 20-point agenda would be implemented for prayers.
He appealed to the people of Pakistan to follow all SOPs. “I appeal to you, for God’s sake, take responsibility and celebrate Eid in a good way,” he concluded.
ADVERTISEMENT
