ISLAMABAD: The NCOC reported 168 new COVID-19 instances in the preceding 24 hours, the largest number since September 2022.
The positivity rate in two major cities, Karachi and Islamabad, has surpassed 5 and 6 per cent, respectively.
While the officials acknowledged the rise in cases, they said the trend not a cause for concern.
NCOC member Dr Shahzad Ali Khan told Dawn that cases had increased due of recent mutations in the virus. “People shouldn’t panic as the new strain’s mortality rate very low,” he added.
According to NCOC data, the national positivity rate was 3.02pc. While rates in Karachi, Lahore and Rawalpindi were 6.11pc, 5.51pc, 3.99pc and 2.61pc, respectively. 24 hours ago, one person died.
Dr Khan said the cases will continue to increase and decrease. It will be as transmissibility fluctuates with the arrival of new strains of the virus.
He said people up to middle age, with good health shouldn’t worry about the virus. Because even if they infected, they will not face major complications and symptoms.
Dr. Khan advised caution for those over 65 and those with blood pressure, diabetes, kidney issues, and cancer.
He said even during last year cases increased before summer but the situation remained under control.
According to the NCOC member “Although the number of cases increased, the number of deaths is minimal”. He added that the virus is in the influenza family and less active in summer.
Precautionary Measures
He still advised caution saying that the NCOC has already advised people to wear masks in health facilities and other public places. The fresh guidelines issued by the NCOC for up to April 30, keeping in view the Covid-19 trend in the country.
“People should avoid crowded places because currently, the virus is only spreading from human to human. Contrary to the situation in 2020 when it was also spreading through utensils, dresses, currency notes, etc,” he said
Last week, Minister for National Health Services, Regulations and Coordination Abdul Qadir Patel also said the virus situation “was under control” and asked people to avoid paying heed to rumours.
“The government had strengthened the role of Border and Health Services to deal with any sub-variant of Covid-19,” the minister said.
He stated that surveillance systems have been put up at all entry points and all arriving passengers are being subjected to fast tests and screening at all airports.
