(Karachi) Prime Minister Imran Khan has said that it is time we take precautionary measures and follow SOPs to curb spread of coronavirus or else be ready to face hard times. He said cases are expected to peak in the country by end of July and in August.

Addressing the nation on coronavirus situation on Monday, the PM said that people are not realizing the intensity of the disease as it has claimed several lives.

He added that the entire world has eased restrictions as it realized that lockdown does not eliminate the virus but it only helps slow spread of the disease. "When a country imposes lockdown restrictions, the spread of the virus is slowed down."

Imran said, "We must also realize that Pakistan is a poor country and that we had no choice but to reopen the country. The entire world has understood that lockdowns aren't a solution.

He mentioned, "We know that the virus will spread, the trend that our experts have observed is that it spreads, then peaks and then the curve flattens. And the purpose behind flattening the curve is to reduce pressure on hospitals."

"I urge people to follow standard operating procedures and take precautions, which is the only way we will be able to manage the outbreak," the PM said.

The prime minister urged citizens to wear face masks to curb the spread of the coronavirus. He said that majority of the people are flouting SOPs, thinking the virus is just a common flu.

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

The premier said that only precautionary measures can help to defeat the coronavirus.