Karachi witnesses spike in COVID-19 cases

Dr Faisal Sultan emphasises smart lockdown, contact tracing and a strict adherence to health protocols

Web Desk

September 30, 2020

A man rides a motorcycle with his two children as a market curfew begins and shops start closing down amid a province-wide lockdown to contain the novel coronavirus in Karachi, Pakistan, April 4, 2020. Geo.tv/Haseem uz Zaman

ISLAMABAD: Karachi seems to be witnessing another spike in COVID-19 infections, with the National Command and Operations Center reporting that 365 out of 747 new cases recorded on September 29 were detected in the metropolis.

The unusual spike caught the attention of the national decision-making body and a meeting early on Wednesday discussed appropriate measures to contain the spike in cases.

Special Assistant to the Prime Minister (SAPM) on Health Dr Faisal Sultan reportedly emphasised smart lockdown, contact tracing and a strict adherence to health protocols.

Meanwhile, Secretary Health Sindh apprised the forum that civil administration is monitoring the situation and appropriate administrative actions will be taken after taking into account disease prevalence in consultation with all stakeholders.

Yesterday, Sindh government spokesperson Murtaza Wahab warned people to practice caution as coronavirus numbers are fast rising and people need to take caution.

Pakistan has started easing coronavirus curbs after infections in the country began to decline, according to government officials. The country's phase-wise reopening of educational institutions will also conclude on September 30.