ACCORDING to latest reports, the Covid virus is once again spreading in the country at an alarming rate with one death reported in 24 hours and the nation-wide tally jumping to 30,384 on Tuesday.
The figures released by the National Institute of Health (NIH) say 9,406 tests were carried out in the past 24 hours out of which 113 persons were tested positive for the disease.
The Covid Positivity Ratio was recorded at 1.20 per cent. There is no doubt that Pakistan handled the situation arising out of the spread of the Covid-19 in a satisfactory manner and it is quoted as a model in this regard as the country tackled the virus well enough to keep the outbreak from getting worse.
But it is also a fact that we declared victory in the campaign at an early stage and as a consequence we are experiencing resurgence of the virus in different parts of the country.
Experts warn that with almost all restrictions lifted and booster take-up often low, cases could soar throughout the summer leading to more deaths and this is what we are witnessing in China and many other countries of the world.
The new Omicron sub-variants BA.4 and BA.5 are 10% to 15% more infectious and with this in view warnings are being administered that hospitals could fill in the summer unless vulnerable people and those over 60 get a fourth dose as soon as possible.
The Government seems to be aware of the risks and that is why Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif last month ordered immediate restoration of the National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) after Pakistan reported the first case of Omicron sub-variant BA.2.12.1.
The Government is, of course, doing its job but its efforts cannot bear fruit without active and willing cooperation from each and every citizen by observing safety precautions and getting themselves vaccinated at the earliest.
