COVID -19 PANDEMIC: EMERGENCE AND EPIDEMIOLOGY

Abstract

Novel corona virus emerged as 6th public health emergency of International concern. Since mid-Dec. 2019 several cases of pneumonia like illness were reported in central Chinese city of Wuhan but later the virus started spreading to other countries. On 11th Mar. 2020, World Health Organization (WHO) declared it as global “pandemic”. On 26th feb. 2020, first two cases of COVID-19 were reported in Pakistan. COVID-19 causes common cold in humans and is transmitted in a similar fashion form person to person via respiratory droplets. Its clinical presentation is milder in children as compared to adults population, while gender distribution showed that men accounted for 60% of all COVID-19 patients. till date no specific vaccine is available for immunization of public mass. No specific antiviral treatment has yet recommended by WHO for COVID-19. However, health authorities have suggested isolation and symptomatic treatment for infected individuals. Due to nonavailability of specific medication and vaccination for COVID-19, WHO has suggested that the best preventive strategy to combat this virus is to avoid its exposure. Uses of face masks, gloves, hand sanitizers, covering mouth and nose while coughing or sneezing and social distancing can reduce the risk of exposure to the virus. keeping in view the guidelines for prevention and control of COVID-19, government of Pakistan took many measures to stop the spread of virus i.e establishment of quarantine centers, testing facilities, designated hospitals, public awareness campaigns and implementation of lockdown. But besides all these efforts there are many challenges faced by government e.g misinformation, lack of public awareness, false interpretations and rumors has made it difficult to combat this pandemic in Pakistan