LAHORE: The World Health Organization (WHO) has expressed concern over the easing of lockdowns in Pakistan, saying the sanctions were lifted on May 1 and 22 when the country did not meet the basic requirements for the decision.


In a letter to Punjab Health Minister Yasmeen Rashid, Palita Mahipala, head of the World Health Organization in Pakistan, said that although most of the current cases of corona virus are in major cities, the epidemic has spread to every district.

The letter said the government had taken decisions such as social distance measures and travel bans, including the closure of schools, since April 12 to curb the spread of the epidemic. However, with the release of the lockdown restrictions on May 1 and later on May 22, the spread of the corona virus accelerated.
The WHO should adopt a two-week lockdown and two-week relaxation policy in the affected areas to curb the spread of the epidemic in Pakistan. The letter also calls for 50,000 tests a day and steps to be taken to strengthen the public health system.

Commenting on the WHO letter, Punjab Health Minister Yasmeen Rashid said that from day one it was the position that the government was providing complete information about the corona virus. The letter called for ensuring implementation of SOPs and also directed the Chief Minister to take stern action against violations of the rules.

When can lockdown be relaxed?

According to the World Health Organization, any country wishing to lift the lockdown ban must meet these conditions:

The spread of the disease is under control
The health system should be able to diagnose, test, quarantine and treat each case and track those who come in contact with the victims.
Hotspots have been reduced in the most affected areas
Precautions are being taken at schools, workshops and other important places
Ability to deal with the arrival of new cases
Awareness and help are being provided to the people to live in the conditions created after the epidemic
According to the WHO, Pakistan does not meet these conditions and the rate of spread of the virus in the country has become alarming.