Availability of diagnostic kits at NIH to help avoid Cornavirus induced panic.

KARACHI -- The Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases Society of Pakistan (MMIDSP) has appreciated availability of diagnostic tests at National Institute of Health (NIH) Islamabad.

Senior doctors and microbiologists representing the organization in a joint statement here on Monday said the suspected coronavirus cases can now be confirmed.

"This should not be considered a sign of spreading epidemic," said Dr. Bushra Jamil, MMIDSP President and an expert in treating infectious diseases at Aga Khan University Hospital.

Dr. Summaiya Nizamuddin (SKMCH), the General Secretary and Dr. Sunil Dodani (SIUT), the Treasurer of the society mentioned that since the number of influenza cases was currently high therefore it was important to differentiate 2019 nCoV from influenza as management of the two is also different.

"We strongly urge media and social media users to avoid creating panic and confusion, respect the privacy of infected individuals and only share information from reliable sources, said the MMIDP officials.

They reiterated that possibility of Coronavirus infection must be considered in patients with fever, cough, shortness of breath and also among those who may have travelled to China during the last 14 days OR may have contact with infected patient within the last 14 days.

It was also emphasized that presently, there is...