Coronavirus pandemic: Confirmed cases surge past 3,000 in Pakistan

The number of confirmed cases in Pakistan rose to 3,124 on Sunday after more cases were reported across the country.

In Punjab, more than 100 new cases were reported across the province, taking the the provincial tally to 1,380.

Balochistan reported three new cases, taking the provincial tally to 189.

“We took 43 samples, of which three came back positive, the rest negative,” Balochistan government spokesperson said.

The spokesperson added 32 patients have recovered from the virus in the province so far.

On the other hand, SIndh's tally of confirmed cases rose to 881 after 37 new cases were reported in the province .

On Sunday, new cases were also reported in Gilgit Baltistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir. According to officials, four new cases were reported n GB taking its tally to  210, while AJK reported two new cases taking its tally to  14.

The country also reported two new deaths, one in Sindh and the other in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, taking the nationwide toll to 45.

Chinese doctors hail steps taken by Punjab govt

Chinese health experts have hailed the steps taken by the Punjab government to curb the spread of the virus in the province.

The remarks were made by a delegation of Chinese doctors, which  met Chief Minister Usman Buzdar in Lahore today.

The Chinese health experts also advised the Punjab government to ensure lockdown for at least 28 days in the province before relaxing it in a phased manner.

"Social distancing is the key to stop the spread of the virus and authorities should ensure lockdown for 28 days," the experts recommended CM Buzdar.

The Punjab government had imposed a lockdown on March 23 for 14 days after a spike in the cases but restrictions were later relaxed to ensure smooth supply of essential items.

The experts also endorsed the SOPs of the Punjab government to contain the virus and for the treatment of patients.

CM Buzdar thanked the support and assistance provided by the Chinese government to Pakistan in time of need and said the friendship between the two countries has stood the test of time.

The efficiency with which Chinese authorities have fought the battle against the epidemic is an example for the whole world and Pakistan would learn lesson your experiences, Buzdar said.