There is low chance of a second wave of COVID-19 in Pakistan

A cross-sectional study conducted from May to July at the National Institute of Blood Diseases (NIBD) Karachi reveals that there is a slim chance of a second wave of the novel coronavirus in Pakistan.

The study published by the Oxford University Press's Journal of Public Health is titled 'Challenges in acquiring herd immunity for Covid-19'. A total of 1675 samples were taken from three groups of the population.

The study revealed that the city is 'still far from herd immunity after the results showed that overall seroprevalence in the city is 36 percent, still far from the 60-70 percent. Seroprevalence is the 'incidence of a disease or illness within a distinct population at one time'.

The study added that if 60 percent seroprevalence is acquired, in next few months, then herd immunity is not far from reality. However, Dr Samreen Zaidi who led the study, has said that follow up studies show that the seroprevalence rate has reached 60 percent, as per expectations.

"We, on the basis of a gradual drop in cases, and other relevant factors, assume that there are low chances of a second wave of coronavirus. However, assumptions are assumptions," Zaidi told Anadolu Agency.

Head of NIBD Dr Tahir Shamsi has also said that there are low chances of a second wave of the pandemic.

"The data this study shows is by July. We are in September now, and the latest statistics, and testing results suggest that the seroprevalence or immunity rate is almost 60% now," he said.