Minimise social interaction, says CM Mahmood Khan

PESHAWAR: Chief Minister Mahmood Khan paid a visit to Dera Ismail Khan district on Thursday where he reviewed the arrangements and facilities being provided in the quarantine centre established at Gomal Medical College for the people coming from Iran through Taftan.

Chief Secretary Kazim Niaz, Secretary Relief Muhammad Abid Majid, commissioner of DI Khan and other senior officials also accompanied the chief minister.

The chief minister was given a detailed briefing by Commissioner and other officials on the arrangements made at the quarantine centre for suspected patients of coronavirus. The chief minister was informed that the centre currently had the capacity to accommodate more than 250 suspected patients, which can further be increased if needed.

Separate rooms have been spared for each and every suspected patient at the centre while complete arrangements for preliminary medical tests of the suspected cases have also been ensured. Mahmood Khan expressed his satisfaction over the arrangements made at the centre. The chief minister was also informed that 225 isolated beds have been allocated for coronavirus patients at Mufti Mahmood Hospital. On the occasion, he directed the authorities concerned to ensure the provision of hygienic and quality food and other facilities to the suspected patients to be kept at the centre. He said the role of staff deployed in the centre was of vital importance in preventing the outbreak of the disease.

Later, the chief minister told media that arrangements in the newly established quarantine centre have been made as per international standards and the government was striving to prevent the spread of the virus by taking pragmatic steps. He also appealed to the general public to show seriousness about coronavirus, minimise social interaction and avoid unnecessary movements.