Chinese doctors advise Punjab to ensure lockdown for at least 28 days

Chinese health experts on Sunday underlined the need of continuation of lockdown for at least twenty eight days to halt the spread of coronavirus.

The remarks were made by a delegation of Chinese doctors, which is in Pakistan to help the local authorities fight the coronavirus pandemic met Chief Minister Usman Buzdar in Lahore today.

"Social distancing is the key to stop the spread of the virus and authorities should ensure lockdown for 28 days," the experts recommended CM Buzdar.

They also appreciated the steps taken by the provincial government to curb the spread of the virus.

Read also: Lack of coordination between Centre and Sindh likely to affect coronavirus relief efforts: report

The Punjab government had imposed a lockdown on March 23 for 14 days after a spike in the cases but restrictions were relaxed to ensure smooth supply of essential items.

Currently, the province leads the nation-wide tally of confirmed cases with over 1,100 patients.

Clarifying a myth that the virus does not survive in high temperatures, the doctors said there was no evidence that the virus would not spread in the summer.

The experts, who have earlier worked in China's epicentre Wuhan, told the officials to contain the virus as soon as possible.

Coronavirus patient should be treated at quarantine centres or at hospitals rather than being kept at home," they said,

Briefing on the passive immunisation method for COVID-19 treatment, they said in critical circumstances plasma treatment is proved useful. "Three anti-viral drugs have also been used successfully."

Read also: After winning coronavirus battle, Pakistan will emerge as the welfare state that was envisioned: PM Imran

The experts also endorsed the SOPs of the Punjab government to contain the virus and for the treatment of patients and also shared their experiences with the provincial authorities during their posting in Wuhan.

CM BUzdar thanked the support and assistance provided by the Chinese government to Pakistan in time of need and said the friendship between the two countries have stood the test of time.

The efficiency with which Chinese authorities have fought the battle against the epidemic is an example for the whole world and Pakistan would learn lesson your experiences, Buzdar said.