KARACHI:Pakistan Medical Association (PMA) is very much concerned over the increasing numbers of Coronavirus patients in Pakistan particularly in Sindh province.
In Pakistan number has reached to 18 (Sindh 15, Islamabad 2, and Gilgit Baltistan 1). PMA appreciate government for taking right steps to tackle spread of corona virus in the country. As a result of this good strategy, we have less no. of patients. We can still improve by adopting more strict preventive measures especially screening at entry points of Pakistan.
Coronavirus has reached more than 117 countries but due to the good performance of our Federal Government, Sindh Government and Baluchistan Government the situation is still under control.
We suggest Federal Government as well as the provincial governments particularly the Sindh Government to increase the number of collection centers for coronavirus test and advertise these centers through electronic and print media to rapidly detect the coronavirus patients.
PMA requested people to visit qualified doctors or government designated centers, if they feel to get advice or checkup regarding coronavirus. We also request public not to get into panic but keep on following the preventive measures to avoid coronavirus. If the preventive measures are not adopted properly it could spread rapidly and become a serious issue. So it is the right time to follow the hygiene rules and keep yourself, your families and surroundings clean in all respect.
Government has requested not to stop Pakistan Supper League (PSL) because it is in the national interest of Pakistan. It is boosting the soft image of Pakistan. But the screening process should be done at entry points of the cricket. Pakistan Cricket Board is also requested not to stop or shift PSL from Karachi. We advise public not to go to stadium and watch these matches at home.
PMA appeal all to follow the following preventive measure to prevent spread of coronavirus including try to avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth, avoid gathering, hand shaking and hugging, people should wash their hands with soap properly after regular intervals, do not get into panic, its viral infection, antibiotic should not be used in any viral disease and Do not involve in self-medication practice.
PMA further instructed the people avoid sneezing and coughing openly, the person suffering from Flu like symptoms should stay at home and should wear mask to protect other people, use tissue papers to clean your nose and dispose of properly. Also use your arm rather than hands for covering your cough, do not share your paraphernalia like glass, plate, cup, towel, mobile, pen, etc. A healthy person should keep himself three feet (1 meter) away from the person coughing or sneezing, people should not themselves insist for the Coronavirus test. Get your advice and treatment only from qualified doctors if feels respiratory distress and mask should not be worn by everybody, says a PMA release.