Efforts underway to prevent coronavirus epidemic: GB CM

GILGIT: Chief Minister Gilgit-Baltistan Hafiz Hafeez-ur-Rehman on Friday said emergency has been declared in region over the alarming coronavirus outbreak, while instructions have been issued to health officials and other concerned departments in this regard.

While talking to journalists, the Chief Minister said that GB administration has taken all necessary measures to save the region from coronavirus epidemic.

CM further said the health department and relevant agencies were directed to take essential measures on emergency bases while special instructions were also given for preventative steps for all transporters, airlines and passengers entering into the region.

He said the emergency was imposed in Gilgit Baltistan and resources were given to health officials to take measures for prevention of the disease. CM Hafiz also ordered secretary health to make sure safety kits and ventilators in isolation wards in Gilgit-Baltistan region.

CM further said after the report and guidelines from the health department, the letter will be sent to the center about the opening of the Pak-China border via Khunjerab.

He appealed media to avoid spreading of fake news, adding that no any coronavirus case was reported from GB. He also turned down news regarding the four patients belonging to Gilgit admitted at a hospital in Islamabad with coronavirus infection.