Staying away

At a time when the coronavirus is playing havoc with the lives of people across the globe, we need to take every precautionary measure to keep ourselves safe and healthy from this pandemic. According to reports, initially, Italian took this disease business as usual and now they are paying a heavy price for this negligence. After China, Italy is the most affected country. But, China, the ground zero for this disease, fought tooth and nail and the public also saw eye to eye with the government, acted wisely as per instructions and now the number of new coronavirus cases in the country are almost negligible as compared to other countries. We must learn both from China and Italy. The writing on the wall is crystal clear. If we succeed in restricting our unnecessary movement, we will be able to defeat the fatal virus without much harm but if we ignore preventive measures, we will find ourselves amidst a crisis from where our recovery will be a dream only.

Social distancing and self-isolation are not the only options but are of utmost importance during this time of trial and tribulation. We must limit our movement. Avoid visiting crowded places. Keep ourselves as well as our environment clean. Take extra care of elderly people. Consume the essential commodities of life frugally and sagaciously. To prepare ourselves for the worst, save food items but at the same time avoid hoarding as well. Governments around the globe are fighting this disease on a war-footing. Even states with sound economic resources are facing numerous challenges in containing the pandemic. Ours is a country with infirm economic conditions and if, God forbids, an Italy-like situation prevails over here, we will incur a huge loss in terms of human casualties. It is time we all acted proactively.

Muhammad Fayyaz Nawrha

Mianwali