As the number of COVID-19 cases in Pakistan decreases, it seems as though lockdown restrictions will be eased in the coming weeks. As our country enters this new phase of the on-going pandemic, it is crucial to remember that the risk of infection is still present. And while restrictions have eased and a feeling of “going back to normal” is settling in, it is extremely important to continue to follow all safety precautions yourself and your loved ones were following during the duration of the lockdown (maintain physical distance,regularly wash and sanitize hands, and wear a mask at all times).

Our collective efforts as a community have resulted in a decrease in cases and ease in restrictions.However, our fight with COVID-19 is long from being over. Until and unless a vaccine becomes widely available for the coronavirus, we must follow all precautionary measures to protect ourselves and our loved ones and prevent the spread of infection. Protecting yourself against COVID-19 means that wherever you are, you must remember to:

• Wear a mask (keeping your nose and mouth covered)
• Wash your hands frequently
• Cover your coughs and sneezes (even if you are not sick from COVID-19)
• Avoid touching your face
• Avoid crowded spaces
• Limit time in enclosed spaces
• Keep a distance of at least 1 meter from others
• Regularly disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces
• Isolate self from others if feeling unwell, and seek help from a doctor if needed

Remember that you are more at risk of coronavirus transmission in some settings compared to others. Now that restrictions are being lifted, consider where you are going and try your best to avoid the three C’s:

• Confined and closed spaced with poor ventilation
• Crowded places with many people nearby
• Close-contact settings especially where people have close-range conversations

For those responsible for public places such as shops, restaurants or places of worship, it is extremely important that the following considerations have been made:

• Keep the space ventilated by opening doors and windows if possible
• Maintain physical distance between staff,clients and visitors
• Limit number of people in enclosed spaces to reduce crowding
• Have hand-washing stations or hand sanitizer readily available
• Have a plan in place in case someone becomes unwell (e.g. try to collect visitors’ contact details on entry, know which facilities to call, etc.)