The number of confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Pakistan have been on a steady incline. It is a confusing, and overwhelming time. It wouldn’t be an exaggeration to say that the world is changing at an unprecedented rate. And, to put it mildly, the future is uncertain.
If you’ve been frequenting the blog lately, you might be confused about all the recipes. I suppose it’s my attempt at escapism. Stirring a pot of cauliflower soup, has a way of lulling the reality. But eventually, you have to wake up, smell the coffee and think about the future. Uncertain though it may be, you have to face what is, and could be.
And I’ve found that during these socially distant times, sharing helps. Everyone. And so, I’ve compiled this little list. These are resources that I’ve been relying on and looking into. I’m hoping that you find it helpful; and I’d also like you to share. I’m sure there are so many other resources that are out there; so tell me about them.
I’ll update this list periodically, with the hope that we can all help each other.
Stay In The Loop: The News Run
Let’s start with the truth; news headlines have been beating all of us down. Particularly because in Pakistan, they come equipped with the quintessential “barking news” madness. So when the headlines turned towards COVID-19 in Pakistan, the result was bound to be dramatic.
What I didn’t expect was a barrage of news-personalities literally yelling at me. From the television screen no less.
And yet, we have to stay informed. So, we need a guide. Someone who will focus on the facts, and leave the histrionics for Netflix originals. The News Run is a daily newsletter, which breaks down Pakistan’s headlines, minus the drama.
I had the pleasure of interviewing its founder, Anam Khan for Meraki’s blog. In her own words, one of their priorities is to ensure that readers are given ample context. In this climate, it is particularly important that we know not just what is happening, and its contextual significance.
When dealing with something as complex as the prevalence of COVID-19 in Pakistan, context is imperative. We need to know, not just what is happening, but what it is a continuation of.
Also, they end every issue with something positive. And let’s face it, when good news is rare, we could all use a daily dose of it. Sign up for the newsletter now.
Stay Updated About COVID-19 In Pakistan: Corona Chatbot
Now, the Ministry of National Health Services, Regulation & Coordination (NHSRC) chatbot has been getting a lot of publicity. Having used it, exhaustively, I can affirm that the applause was warranted.
Apart from offering information about the coronavirus in question, it’s also a great way to get daily updates. I’ve been using it to stay updated about the changing numbers. I’m still skeptical about how active the government has been. But, we must give the devil his due.
Access the chatbot here.
Let The Experts Speak: WHO
There has been a lot of misinformation, and even more conspiracy theories. And, can I just say, that I appreciate the entertainment, but they are not helping. We are in the midst of a pandemic. And the last thing we need is a once A-list actress pushing a product.
So, let me offer a confirmed, and reliable resource instead. The World Health Organisation has been putting out a lot of helpful information. If you aren’t already, follow them on Instagram, they put out some really informative content.
They’ve also been publishing information about technical aspects, and country-specific preparedness. Find out more here.
Give Back: Food For Thought
Despite my disagreements with the official response, I agree that the poorest individuals will be the worst impacted. In fact, I think we can all agree about this.
So, when it comes to our responses to COVID-19 in Pakistan, individual responsibility should take this into account as well. Social distancing, and personal hygiene are of course imperative. But, we also have to remember that some people will be more severely impacted by others. So, please try to support them.
One program that I personally really admire is Food For Thought’s sponsor a family program.
By donating Rs. 3000, you can help them provide groceries for a family for a month. Get in touch with them to find out more.
That’s NOT All Folks…
As I mentioned, this is not an expansive list. Because it consists of resources that I myself have been using, and researching about. But, I will add to it, as and when I find out about more resources. And, it would be really helpful if you join in on that research with me.
If you know of anything that could be helpful, please send me a message, leave me a comment, or DM me. I’ll update the list as regularly as I can.
