Pakistan: Virus cases peak amid 2nd wave fears

KARACHI, Pakistan

Pakistan on Thursday reported its highest daily coronavirus cases and deaths in the past three months.

The South Asian nuclear state recorded 1,808 new infections and 34 deaths – its highest tallies since July 30 – over the past day, official data showed.

The country's overall caseload has reached 349,992, including 7,055 fatalities and 320,849 recoveries.

Pakistan has recorded nearly 15,000 cases this month alone, giving credence to health experts’ warnings about a second wave of the novel coronavirus.

Following doctors’ advice, the country’s COVID-19 monitoring body has banned large public events and enhanced restrictions to stem the virus' spread.

Outdoor gatherings of all sorts, including political events, have been limited to a maximum of 500 people, while cinemas, theaters, and shrines have been closed.

According to the National Command and Operation Center, the number of infections has risen threefold since Oct. 12, when it first recommended restrictions on large public gatherings and outdoor activities.

Following a surge in cases in educational institutes, the government is also considering announcing winter vacations before schedule.

Authorities have already announced closure of all parks and entertainment venues by 6 p.m. local time (1300GMT), and markets, shopping centers, restaurants, and banquet halls by 10 p.m. (1700GMT) nationwide.

In May, Pakistan eased virus restrictions and reopened businesses which had been closed since March.