Virus cases expected to peak by end of July, August: Pak PM as tally rises to 105,637

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Imran Khan said on Monday that the Coronavirus epidemic is expected to peak in Pakistan in the next two months, as the number of the COVID-19 cases in the country rose to 105,637.

"We already know that the virus will spread. The trend that our experts have observed is that it spreads, then peaks and then the curve flattens, Khan said while addressing the nation.

"Our cases are expected to peak by the end of July or

August, and then transmission will reduce. So, today I appeal to you, not for me, for you that please take precautions for your loved ones, for the elderly and for those who have other diseases, he said.

He said the majority of people were flouting rules, thinking the virus was just a common flu. "If we continue to ignore standard operating procedures, then we are putting the lives of the vulnerable people in danger," he warned.

Khan said that if the people followed the standard operating procedures and took precautionary measures, Pakistan can easily manage the pandemic.

"Please wear masks, this is very important. The world has realised that masks can prevent the spread of the virus by up to 50 per cent. Secondly, when you venture into public places, follow the guidelines that have been issued by the government, he said.

Khan has said that the entire world had understood that lockdowns are not a solution to COVID-19. "When a country imposes lockdown restrictions, the spread of the virus is slowed down, he said.

He said that Pakistan was a poor country and that we had no choice but to reopen the country .

Khan's remarks came as the number of confirmed COVID19 cases in Pakistan rose to 105,637 on Monday after new infections were reported.