Islamabad, Oct 9 (IANS): Pakistani health experts have said that there was a "slight increase" in the coronavirus positivity rate across the country, though the overall situation has continued to remain stable.

The update was shared during a meeting on Thursday of the National Command and Operation Center (NCOC) presided over by its head and Planning Minister Asad Umar, The Express Tribune.

According to latest update by the NCOC, 583 coronavirus cases were reported on Thursday, which increased the country's total tally to 317,424.

The country's death toll currently stands at 6,550.

The health experts also apprised the meeting about the pattern and prevalence of possible second wave in the world and particularly in the South Asian region.

It was highlighted that a decline has been witnessed in following health guidelines, including wearing masks, social distancing, and no mask no service protocols.

It was mentioned that social events and large public gatherings particularly restaurants and marriage halls were identified as higher risk activities where guidelines were not being followed as directed by health experts.

Speaking on the occasion, Umar emphasised that public safety was of utmost importance and success of national anti-Covid efforts should not be allowed to go waste.