Asad Umar confirms the third COVID wave in Pakistan

The federal minister said that the number of cases are on the rise and the UK strain has been found in Pakistan as well as in Bangladesh

Federal Minister Asad Umar confirmed that the third wave of COVID-19, commonly referred to as coronavirus, has begun in Pakistan. The daily number after remaining under 1,500 for several weeks has jumped to around 2,700. They attributed the rising number to the more aggressive UK strain, which has now entered Pakistan.

“Yes, there is no doubt that the third wave has started and basically, the phenomena that’s driving it is the spread of the UK strain,” Umar said while talking with the media.

The minister added that the research has shown that the UK strain is now in Pakistan and it is also present in other countries in the region including Bangladesh.

“We had suspected at that time also that the spread is due to the UK strain, and now research has also proven it,” Umar Said. “This is a really dangerous situation developing as of now and the same is happening in other parts of the region, including Bangladesh.”

The total number of positive coronavirus cases is now over 602,000 in Pakistan. More than 13,000 people have lost their lives to the virus in the last year or so.

Stricter SOPs in place

The government will ensure stricter application of SOPs in order to slow down the spread of the virus. Business timings have been limited in many places. Certain businesses, such as cinemas, indoor marriage halls, and other indoor activities will remain suspended for now.

It is crucial that people pay more heed to the warnings and avoid undue exposure in the public. Following the basic guidelines such as wearing face masks and constantly washing hands and face can also be very useful. It is important to follow these steps as it is in our own best interest. Unless the wave slows down, the government could be forced to shut down cities once again.