KARACHI:Eight suspected cases of coronavirus have so far been reported from Agha Khan University Hospital, a Sindh health department document revealed on Tuesday.
The Health Department, Government of Sindh was contacted by Aga Khan University Hospital (AKUH) on 25 January 2020 regarding a cluster of suspected coronavirus cases. The Director General Health Services Sindh (DG Sindh) formulated a team with objective to investigate the suspected reported cases.
Five of these suspected cases were identified by AKUH according to case definition. Three of these suspected cases were identified from a cluster of 27 suspected cases that was reported on 27th January 2020 admitted in AKUH, which was promptly investigated by Dr Adnan Khan, Fellow FELTP.
Out of the suspected cases one case had no travel history to China (contact with Chinese nationality persons), seven had travel history from China during January 2020 and one had travel history from China during June 2019.
All suspected cases had flu like symptoms. Seven were employed at Karachi Nuclear Power Plant (KANUPP). One leave against medical advice (LAMA) and four were discharged. Two suspected cases were defined as “not a case” as per AKUH case definition and after observation under treatment.
The health department document said: “Coordination was developed with the AKU hospital for timely sharing data. Surveillance mechanism was established and sentinel sites were also developed. Communication was also developed with health authorities and other stakeholders. Health Advisory regarding Coronavirus communicated to every healthcare facilities.”
Preventive measures have also been advised that include stay at home until symptoms have resolved (at least 24 hours after fever has defervesce/subside of Fever); avoid close contact with others especially those at high risk for severe infection; avoid close contact; cover mouth and nose with tissue when sneezing or coughing. Wash hands with soap and water or disinfect with an alcohol-based hand rub regularly; limit the number of visitors; and wipe down surfaces that are frequently touched or shared (doorknobs, remote controls) with a standard household disinfectant.