'People Informed on COVID-19'

Q: Do you think people are now better aware of the disease in your Gram Panchayat?

Panchayat Sachiv: Yes, we can say that. People are getting a lot of information via television, radio and social media. Panchayat members, ASHA and other health workers are also raising awareness about the virus. People understand what precautions they need to take. They have also stopped venturing outside if it’s not essential.

Q: What is the prescribed process if a person is suspected of COVID-19?

Panchayat Sachiv: First of all, the people who have arrived from outside the region and their families are tracked and monitored. If any of them show symptoms, we immediately get in touch with the ASHA, and call the health team. If the symptoms are severe then they are tested. As per the situation, they are taken to the related health institutional centre.

This interview was conducted with a Panchayat Sachiv in Solan, Himachal Pradesh in Hindi on 24 July 2020, and has been translated.