Hepatitis patients at higher risk of COVID-19
Hepatitis patients are especially vulnerable to the novel coronavirus disease due to base damage to the liver and must practice greater caution during the ongoing pandemic situation. Currently, all five major hepatitis strains are prevalent in Pakistan – hepatitis B and C can be transmitted via unprotected sex, blood, and from mother to child, mainly due to the use of unsterilized tools and poor hygienic conditions.
No death in Punjab in last 24 hours
Punjab reported no COVID-19 fatality in the past 24 hours, a first since May as cases continue to steadily decline in the province, as well as across the country. Meanwhile, the Punjab government imposed a
strict ban on public and private religious gatherings ahead of Eid al-Azha to mitigate transmissions prior to the holidays.
Cases fall by 60% in Balochistan
A spokesperson for the Balochistan government Liaqat Shahwani noted a 60% reduction in cases after the province increased its daily testing capacity in June. 85% of COVID-19 patients in Balochistan have recovered to date, however, Shahwani urged the public to observe Eid with simplicity to prevent a resurge in cases after the holidays.
47,000 policeman deployed for Eid
28,894 constables, 3,135 ASIs, 2,262 head constables, 1,640 sub-inspectors, 542 inspectors, and 243 officers to be deployed in Punjab during Eid al-Azha to ensure SOPs are enforced at mosques and congregational prayers irrespective of security arrangements.
Businesses may reopen if cases remain low
Prime Minister Imran Khan stated that all non-essential businesses, such as marriage halls, salons, and other businesses, as well as educational institutions, may reopen if COVID-19 cases remain low post-Muharram. He urged the public to opt for buying sacrificial animals online and observe SOPs as the economy cannot bear a resurge in cases.