‘Covid-19 may surge post-Eid if SOPs flouted’

Health minister calls for social distancing, shared sacrifice on religious festival

Sindh Health Minister Dr Azra Pechuho warned on Thursday against a surge in Covid-19 pandemic after Eidul Azha, as she urged citizens to observe precautionary measures and follow standard operating procedures (SOPs), including those issued for slaughter, during the religious festival.

“The spread of Covid-19 may escalate post-Eid in case of non-compliance of precautions,” she said, adding that the contagion particularly posed a threat to people having underlying medical conditions.

She said that the public needed to be mindful of the fact that the coronavirus was still prevalent and that it could spread during Eid.

“Hence, it is important to follow SOPs while visiting cattle markets and shopping for Eid, as much as it is important to observe social distancing during Eid gatherings,” the minister stressed. She further called for the public to give preference to exchanging Eid wishes on phone, as well as shared sacrifices.

The minister further recommended making hand hygiene and wearing masks a part of daily routine.

Separately, Sindh health secretary Dr Kazim Hussain Jatoi issued a statement, expressing concern over a potential rise in Covid-19 cases owing to Eid shopping and disregard for SOPs.

Published in The Express Tribune, July 31^st, 2020.