ISLAMABAD, Pakistan: The National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) has shown serious concern on the rising Coronavirus (COVID-19) trend and mortality rate.Â
In its Morning Session held in Islamabad on Thursday with the Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Asad Umar in the Chair, the NCOC was apprised on the implementation of various health guidelines as already issued to all Federating Units.
It was apprised that the implementation of those guidelines needs a comprehensive review.
The forum was briefed that a sharp rising trend in disease is visible and positivity has crossed 7.5 percent. It was told that almost all major cities have crossed percent positivity.
Also Read: Pakistan registers 3,495 Coronavirus Cases, highest since December 6
The Provincial Administrations have been asked to take immediate actions for the strict implementation of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
Serious concern was shown on the general disregard of SOPs by the masses. The mass violations of SOPs and disrespect of orders including not wearing of masks, disregard of social distancing are widely reported.
The appeal was made to citizens to once again display a good example of social behavior and follow the SOPs in letter and spirit; otherwise, strict measures will have to be taken which may result in the closure of business and restrictions on economic and social activities.
It was decided that COVID Vaccination Centers across the Country will remain closed on Sundays and national holidays.
Separately in a Tweet also, Asad Umar asked the people to be very careful as the new strain of COVID spreads faster and is more deadly.
The minister said that hospital daily admissions and the people in critical care are rising fast. He said that if SOP compliance does not improve, we will be forced to place stronger restrictions on activities.
Sharp spike in covid positivity. Hospital daily admissions & people in critical care rising fast. If sop compliance does not improve, we will be forced to place stronger restrictions on activities. Please be very very careful. The new strain spreads faster and is more deadly.
— Asad Umar (@Asad_Umar) March 18, 2021
