The current nationwide positivity rate is at 6% with Mirpur recording the highest at over 20%
The National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) said a policy for Rapid Antigen Testing to detect the novel coronavirus swiftly is being initiated. The step is taken in light of the guidelines from the World Health Organization (WHO).
Currently, there is a 6% positivity ratio nationwide with Mirpur recording more than 20.6% positive results, the highest in the nation. Peshawar also has a nearly 20% positive ratio. Over 40,000 tests are being carried out each day in the country.
Ministry of National Health Services (NHS) spokesperson Sajid Shah said that the number of cases was decreasing owing to the closure of educational institutions and smart lockdowns in the virus hotspots. Approximately, a 27% decline in new coronavirus cases has been seen during the last week.
“We have been taking steps to break the chain of the virus by enforcing lockdowns and contact tracing. Moreover, wedding halls have been closed and only outdoor dining is allowed. The number of participants of the wedding was earlier limited to 1,000 and then to 500 and finally, it was decided that the number should not exceed 300,” he said.
“Being a developing country, majority of families stay in one room during the winter season to keep themselves warm. Most of the labs are giving result tests in up to 72 hours, so chances of the virus transmission increases. That is why we are encouraging rapid tests as they will be helpful to isolate confirmed patients at the earliest,” Shah said in response to a question.
Pakistan is one of the countries that was able to control the spread of the virus early on. However, due to carelessness by the masses, the number of cases has been on the rise in recent weeks. The average new cases jumped from under 500 to over 2,500 a day. The current number of active cases has crossed 50,000 as well. The number of asymptomatic patients in the country is also fairly significant according to some studies that were carried out. Only proper care and following of SOPs can help in slowing down the virus.