Staff Reporter :
The National Technical Advisory Committee (NTAC) on Covid-19 has stressed to announce nationwide 14 days strict shutdown to avoid the India like catastrophe of surging the pandemic.
The committee said that there is no alternative to take more stern measures in the wake of the dramatic surge in covid cases across the country.
NTAC made the suggestion in its meeting on Wednesday night, according to a statement issued by NTAC Chairman Professor Dr. Mohammad Shahidullah on Thursday.
The committee suggested that all offices, except for the emergency services, should be shut down.
It said the constantly worsening situation cannot be curbed without a nationwide shutdown.
The statement said, the new Delta variant of the coronavirus is much more transmissible than the previous variants.
It said that, as per the data from the Directorate General of Health Services, it was seen that more than 50 districts have very high infection rates.
They also mentioned that separate restrictions enforced in different parts of the country may not be fruitful on curbing the pandemic.
The body said that they have consulted experts in India and found that the infection rate has been under control only after imposing complete shutdown in the areas. They said that it has prompted the recommendation for two-week nationwide shutdown, according to the statement.
The NTAC also urged to vaccinate at least 80 percent of the population for achieving herd immunity.
It also thanked the Prime Minister for her efforts and giving importance on collecting vaccines from various sources.
The committee also supported the Prime Minister’s effort for producing vaccine locally.
