New Variant Of Corona In Pakistan

Following a declaration by Sindh Health Minister Dr. Azra Pechuho regarding the emergence of another concerning virus termed "B-1135" alongside the UK variant in Karachi, a heightened need for stringent actions across all levels to combat the spread of various coronavirus strains has arisen. According to a video statement from the provincial health minister, 18 cases of the UK variant and two cases of "B-135" have been confirmed. The UK variant is exhibiting rapid proliferation, while the dual variant devastation witnessed in India is causing widespread alarm.

On Thursday, the third wave of COVID-19 claimed the lives of 151 individuals in Pakistan, with 5,480 new positive cases reported. The positivity rate stands at 9.6%, and there are currently 89,838 active cases, while recoveries number 3,702.

Significant attention is warranted for the concerning data from Punjab and the expressed worries in Sindh, especially concerning cities like Hyderabad and Karachi. To address this, the National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) has suggested a lockdown from May 8. Additionally, Eid-ul-Fitr has been declared a public holiday from May 10 to 15. For the period starting May 1, the NCOC has issued guidelines for Yum Ali, Shab-e-Qadr, Itikaf, and Jumat-ul-Wada, which will be enforced. Recreational areas, hotels, public parks, and shopping malls will remain closed from May 8 to 16 during these religious observances. Inter-provincial, inter-city, and intra-city public transport will be halted during Eid holidays, while private cars, rickshaws, and taxis can operate at 50% capacity. Passenger flights to Pakistan will also be restricted from May 5 to 20.

In the collective effort to safeguard lives, both government agencies and the general populace share the responsibility to ensure the strict adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).