Dr Mirza tells people not to panic, focus on positive aspects of situation

ISLAMABAD: PM’s Special Assistant on Health Dr. Zafar Mirza has said that people of Pakistan should not be panic and should focus on the positive aspects of the situation.

Addressing a press conference today (Monday), Dr. Zafar Mirza has claimed that “97 to 98 percent of the people who are infected with the coronavirus recover.”

Dr. Zafar Mirza has said that the total number of confirmed cases of the novel coronavirus had reached 94 as some pilgrims who had gone to Taftan from Sukkur had tested positive to the infection. 

While appreciating the steps taken by the provincial governments, Dr. Zafar Mirza said that the provinces have taken a wise decision to conduct tests of the pilgrims again.

While requesting the people to stay calm, Dr. Zafar Mirza assured people that the government was keeping a keen eye on the issue and was taking effective steps to contain the virus. 

Commenting on Rangers deployment at airports, Dr. Zafar Mirza said that the health ministry had sought the help of Rangers who will assist in the screening process at three airports in the country.

Dr. Zafar Mirza also praised the screening methods in Pakistan and said that there was always the possibility of a person escaping the screening process. 

 ‘Testing for coronavirus’

Special Assistant on Health revealed that 14 laboratories throughout the country were testing for the coronavirus.

Referring to testing kits, he said that Pakistan is the first country that got the coronavirus testing kits which would help a lot.

Commenting on who should be tested for virus, Dr. Zafar Mirza said, people who suffer from common cold should not get themselves tested.

Dr. Mirza said that those people who recently came from abroad should be tested for the virus. “However, if you have returned from abroad and if you’re suffering from fever, coughing or having difficulty in breathing, then you need to get tested,” he said.