The number of confirmed coronavirus cases has approached a grim milestone of more than 1.1 million people and more than 64,000 people have died. All countries are taking stern measures in order to halt the spread of coronavirus as half the world stays at home.
The WHO has termed the pandemic more than just a health crisis and warned that haste to end the lockdown could have serious consequences. Many countries have extended the lockdown until the end of May. With no effective cure or treatment, the only preventive measures are to stay at home, social distancing and similar safety measures.
The global health agency has cautioned that young people are becoming critically ill and dying from the coronavirus. In UK, a teenager died with no health complications or medical history. Young people are not invulnerable and therefore, it is a mistake to assume that the virus only impacts older people and those with underlying conditions. It is important for young people to take measures to protect themselves and others who are more vulnerable.
Pakistan has reported more than 2880 coronavirus infections with 45 deaths till now. The provincial governments have extended a lockdown until April 15. The reluctant prime minister is still not in favour of a complete lockdown but an undeclared one has been imposed. The government has submitted a report to the top court stating that coronavirus infections are feared to reach a shocking 50,000 this month.
Prime Minister Imran Khan has asserted that war against coronavirus will be prolonged. Developed countries with strong health systems are worried about the lockdown. He wants to open the agriculture and construction industries as the country cannot afford a prolonged lockdown. The crisis is far from over as the government has set up field hospitals for the number of cases could surge in the coming weeks.
According to a study, Pakistan recorded a seventy percent decline in movement of people due to the lockdown. This is increasing anxiety among people including the business and religious community. Things could get more complicated with the advent of the holy month of Ramazan. Nevertheless, there is a need to adhere to official directives and safety precautions to minimize the risk of infections.
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