What Can Bhilwara Teach Us About Tackling COVID-19 Hotspots?

Can the Bhilwara formula be replicated across India? Can it help us contain the spread of COVID-19?

Rajasthan’s Bhilwara was one of 20 coronavirus hotspots identified by the health ministry that could lead to a spike in cases. Now, 19 out of 26 cases have tested negative.

(Image: The Quint)

Rajasthan’s Bhilwara has become a role model for its handling of COVID-19 cases.

It was one of 20 coronavirus hotspots identified by the Union health ministry, that could potentially lead to a spike in the number of cases.

It reported its first case on 18 March – a doctor at a private hospital who had come into contact with hundreds of patients. Local authorities jumped into action, to survey and isolate those infected.

The number of infections grew to 26. As of this podcast’s recording, 19 of the 26 have tested negative. Across Rajasthan, at least 253 cases have been confirmed, with 21 recoveries.

Kerala’s Pathanamthitta did something similar, and while it was named a hotspot at first, it’s now been taken off the list.

But there are at least 20 places across India including Mumbai, Pune, Noida, Ahmedabad, and more, which are still considered coronavirus hotspots.

How can authorities tackle these infection hotspots? What lessons can they take from examples like Bhilwara? And how will the spread of COVID-19 be contained in these areas, once the lockdown ends on 14 April?

Guests: Dr Rajan Nanda, Principal and Controller of Rajmata Vijaya Raje Scindia Medical College and Associated Group of Hospitals in Bhilwara

Smitha TK, Senior Correspondent, The Quint