ISLAMABAD: The National Command and Operation Center (NCOC) on Monday was apprised that non-compliance with standard operating procedures of coronavirus including wearing mask and maintaining social distance may give rise to disease spread.

Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Asad Umar chaired the NCOC daily situational brief held in Islamabad.

Asad Umar said that monitoring of disease prevalence and containment measures were important. “Wearing of face masks is the key to control disease spread.” He said winter spike could be avoided through compliance with SOPs.

Also Read: PM Imran advises use of face mask to avert second coronavirus wave in winter

Asad Umar noted that marriage halls and restaurants were turning into major centers for disease spread.

The NCOC also appreciated education sector for their efforts in adherence to follow health guidelines and protocols.

Prime Minister Imran Khan has also advised the countrymen to wear face masks in the public to avert the feared second wave of COVID-19 pandemic in winter.

“Compared to some other states, Allah (SWT) has been kind to Pakistan by sparing it from worst effects of the pandemic,” the prime minister said in a tweet.

He said there was a fear, onset of winter could result in second wave. He urged everyone to wear face masks in public to avoid a spike.

Prime Minister Imran also instructed all offices and educational institutions to ensure everyone wore face mask.