During times of a global pandemic, all news around the world is being focused on the coronavirus. We are already in the midst of a global recession and fears are being raised that the virus could affect millions of people, shut down entire cities, and bring down daily life virtually to a standstill.
In Pakistan, the number of coronavirus cases have seen a sudden spike in the last few days and have reached at least 236. The provinces of Punjab and KP, whose governments earlier downplayed the threat, have reported a sudden rise in cases. The PSL has been postponed indefinitely, bringing an unceremonious end to the sporting event.
Sindh has been the worst affected with 172 cases including pilgrims who had recently from Iran. The provincial government has been racing to prevent the spread of the dreaded disease but will face hindrances due to weak public health system and lack of protocols. Sindh Chief Minister has blamed the handling at the Taftan border in Balochistan for aggravating the situation.
The visitors were released after supposedly undergoing quarantine but still contracted the virus. The facilities were dismal and they were holed in an open tent rather than being isolated which worsened the condition. They are now being kept at a new facility in Sukkur and the province is now bracing for more patients. The whereabouts of all pilgrims who supposedly left for other parts of the country are unknown and should be traced.
The Sindh government has now closed all shopping malls, restaurants, public parks, and beaches for fifteen days, while grocery stores, pharmacies, and utility stores will remain open. The steps are unprecedented as already educational institutes, cinemas and shrines are closed. The uncertainty over when the threat of coronavirus will subside makes it difficult to predict when life will return to normal.
Yet it is being observed that public attitude to the virus has been muted as social distancing and other safety measures are not being followed. There has been panic buying over fear of shortages and rumours of a complete lockdown but still everyday life has been going on as usual.
The lack of awareness campaigns has led to the spread of fake news regarding the virus. People should listen to the government and take necessary precautions as simple measures can suppress the disease. The situation can detoriate in the coming days and we should be prepared for all situations as the worst is yet to come.
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