Total number of COVID single-day deaths crossed 200 for the first time in Pakistan
Pakistan’s government is mulling over stricter lockdowns after the country witnesses more than 200 covid-related deaths in a single day for the first time. A total of 201 deaths were recorded on April 27th, while nearly 5,300 new positive coronavirus cases were registered. The positivity rate against tests rose to an alarming 10.2% with a mortality rate crossing 2% for the first time.
Need for vaccination
The government of Pakistan is actively seeking vaccines from different sources. Currently, a few million doses have been acquired but they are not enough to cater to the entire at-risk population. About 2 million doses have been administered, mostly to the frontline healthcare workers and the elderly. The government is vaccinating anyone over the age of 50 in the major urban center and soon the process will begin for people over 40 as well.
Some private parties also imported Russia’s Sputnik V vaccines but they’re available in very limited numbers. A price-related controversy also affected the administration of those vaccines since they were highly overpriced.
The vaccine shortage will likely remain a problem for the next few months until COVAX vaccines are available. Many developed nations are also being accused of overbuying vaccines which are affecting the ability of the developing countries to get enough.
Need to follow SOPs
The masses need to follow SOPs in order to keep the spread of the virus to a minimum. People must wear face masks and intermittently wash their hands and face thoroughly, and maintain social distancing.
There already are a lot of curbs on non-essential retail businesses and the transportation industry. The government is making the restrictions harder by the day and there is a risk that a complete lockdown may once again be put in place across the country. Such actions have severe financial repercussions but that may be overlooked considering the greater good.