"We finally have confirmation: at the time of writing, there are at least four confirmed cases of Covid-19 in Pakistan. One of the patients travelled to Iran and was exhibiting symptoms before travelling back home. Six days had passed by the time this patient was diagnosed and isolated.

"This may seem like time to worry, but the simple fact is that epidemiologists have almost unanimously concluded that it is impossible to contain the spread of Covid-19.

"It is difficult for a country like ours — that frequently bungles common immunisations — to check all the boxes. China’s lockdown in Wuhan was unprecedented and impossible for any other country in the world, and yet it can only buy us a few weeks before Covid-19 becomes a global pandemic. While we too can buy a few days through containment and sealed borders, our real test is of preparation."

Read the full piece here.