Covid-19 claims another life in twin cities

Testing ramped up in federal capital to over 4,000 per day

RAWALPINDI:

The novel coronavirus pandemic claimed another life in Rawalpindi on Tuesday while neighbouring Islamabad recorded a second day without any virus related fatalities since the middle of October.

Rawalpindi District Health Authority (DHA) Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Dr Sohail Chaudhry told The Express Tribune that some 59 people were confirmed to have been infected with the novel coronavirus (Covid-19) in the district during the past 24 hours.

Moreover, a fatality was recorded where a female resident of the federal capital, who was receiving treatment for the virus in the city.

After a surge in cases in the garrison city, which has seen an increase of 420 cases since October 20, Dr Chaudhry hinted at imposing a smart lockdown again.

“The rise in the pandemic virus cases in the garrison city has compelled the Rawalpindi administration to restart random sampling again,” he said, adding that they were collecting up to 1,500 random samples daily for testing.

He added that a new set of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) will be devised to stem the spread of Covid-19.

The official noted that many people stopped using face masks and sanitisers as the virus winded down which has led to the second wave.

Meanwhile, the Rawalpindi Deputy Commissioner Capt (retired) Anwarul Haq on Tuesday directed officials of the district health department to provide maximum possible facilities to Covid-19 patients.

Chairing a meeting to review Covid-19 arrangements, he directed the administration of allied hospitals to ensure the provision of a balanced diet to Covid-19 patients.

The public was also urged to follow SOPs regarding the virus, including maintaining social distancing, use of masks and washing hands with sanitisers.

Published in The Express Tribune, November 4^th, 2020.