LAHORE: The death toll from novel coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak surged past 2,700 on Thursday as Pakistan reported its first two confirmed cases a day earlier.
Following the news, Ministry of Health reiterated yesterday that it is closely monitoring the new flu-like virus that has killed hundreds in China and elsewhere in the world.
Moments after a suspected virus carrier was tested positive in Karachi, and the other in Islamabad, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Health Dr Zafar Mirza once again assured that “things are under control”.
220/ I can confirm first two cases of corona virus in Pakistan. Both cases are being taken care of according to clinical standard protocols & both of them are stable. No need to panic, things are under control. I will hold press conf tomorrow on return from Taftan.
— Zafar Mirza (@zfrmrza) February 26, 2020
According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), most people who become infected experience mild illness and recover, but it can be more severe for others.
However, the UN body has shared a list of recommendations for protection against the new coronavirus. Here is a useful infographic.
Wash your hands frequently
Regularly and thoroughly clean your hands with an alcohol-based hand rub or wash them with soap and water.
Why? Washing your hands with soap and water or using alcohol-based hand rub kills viruses that may be on your hands.
Maintain social distancing
Maintain at least 1 meter (3 feet) distance between yourself and anyone who is coughing or sneezing.
Why? When someone coughs or sneezes they spray small liquid droplets from their nose or mouth which may contain the virus. If you are too close, you can breathe in the droplets, including the COVID-19 virus if the person coughing has the disease.
Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth
Why? Hands touch many surfaces and can pick up viruses. Once contaminated, hands can transfer the virus to your eyes, nose or mouth. From there, the virus can enter your body and can make you sick.
Source: World Health Organization
WHO has also shared protection measures for persons who are in or have recently visited (past 14 days) areas where COVID-19 is spreading.
Source: World Health Organization
