Pakistan reports drop in COVID-19 fatalities on second consecutive day

Islamabad: Pakistan on Monday reported 26 deaths in a period of 24 hours and 1,615 new cases of COVID-19 after 34,785 tests were conducted in one day.

According to the National Command & Operation Centre (NCOC), this was the second day of continuous drop in the number of deaths due to coronavirus. The number of critical cases in the country was 2,092. However, the major concern of the authorities is still the number of active cases in the country which stands at 33,493.

Pakistan’s total deaths with these latest figures have surged to 11,683 and confirmed cases 546,428.

Outdoor dining at restaurants allowed after 10 pm

Following the decreasing trend of new COVID-19 cases, the Punjab government and the Islamabad district administration have eased the pandemic related restrictions on restaurants over serving food after 10pm.

The eateries, however, have been directed to continue serving food only in the open air. Indoor dining remains strictly banned and action would be taken against any restaurants and cafes found flouting the order.

Minister tests positive

Federal Minister for Industries Hammad Azhar has self-isolated after he was tested positive on Monday. The minister took to social media and announced the news seeking the countrymen to pray for his health.

“I have tested positive for COVID-19 and self isolating at home. Requesting everyone for prayers. JazakAllah Khair”.

Pakistan’s recoveries cross 500,000

With 1,287 cases recovered from the virus, the country’s total number of recoveries have touched 501,252 thus crossing the threshold of 500,000.

6 million doses of vaccine to arrive by March

Pakistan’s Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiative Asad Umar earlier shared the news that Pakistan will receive up to 17 million doses of AstraZeneca vaccine by first half of 2021.

In a tweet, Asad Umar posted that about 6 million will be received by March with delivery starting in February.