ISLAMABAD: At least 2,775 new coronavirus cases have surfaced in the country over the last twenty-four hours, taking the total tally to 195,745. 

These include 71,987 in Punjab, 75,168 in Sindh, 24,303 in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, 9,946 in Balochistan, 11,981 in Islamabad, 1,398 in Gilgit-Baltistan and 962 in Azad Kashmir. 

The death toll from the virus stands at 3,962 with 59 deaths reported over the last twenty-four hours. 21,041 corona tests were carried out during this period. 

84,168 patients have so far recovered from the disease.

Special Assistant to Prime Minister on National Health Services, Dr. Zafar Mirza has said that Pakistan is fighting COVID-19 through a robust and coordinated national response.                   

He was speaking through a video-link meeting with Regional Director of World Health Organization Dr. Ahmed Al-Mandhari which was held in Cairo.                              

The purpose of the meeting was to discuss Pakistan’s COVID-19 response and explore areas where WHO could provide technical guidance and support to the country.                

Dr Zafar Mirza said Pakistan is implementing smart lockdowns rather than a generalized lockdown as Prime Minister Imran Khan is cognizant of the financial hardship of around 25 percent population living below poverty line.                   

He informed the meeting that 35 points Standard Operating Procedures has been developed and the public is being educated through a strong communication initiative.

On the occasion, Regional Director WHO appreciated the efforts being made by Pakistan in fighting COVID-19 pandemic. He also expressed all out support of his organization for the government of Pakistan in this regard.