How the small Himalayan nation Bhutan combats COVID-19 efficiently

update 12 may 2021

With just 37 doctors, 1200 vaccination centers and less than 3000 healthcare workers, Bhutan vaccinated 93% of its eligible population within 9 days.

On 11 May 2021, Bhutan’s Prime Minister Dasho Dr Lotay Tshering went on LIVE with CNN International (First Move with Julia Chatterley). As shared by the Prime Minister, Bhutan is often unheard of. But thanks to its efficient handling of COVID-19 pandemic, the tiny Himalayan kingdom has gained much recognition and praises from international media.

During the CNN interview with Julia Chatterley, Prime Minister Lotay Tshering shared about the ongoing efforts to battle the pandemic, the nationwide vaccination campaign, and requested for other countries to assist Bhutan with the second doses of vaccines.

Preparation and swift actions

Bhutan has started preparation since February 2020 upon news of the coronavirus outbreak in China. On 5th March, the Kingdom detected its first imported case of the coronavirus. The government acted swiftly to prevent any outbreak.

The country closed the borders for tourism immediately after the first positive case was detected. A National COVID-19 Task Force (NC19TF) was constituted with the Prime Minister as the Chair.

A 21-day mandatory quarantine was implemented for all Bhutanese returning from abroad. Expenses for quarantine facilities including food, accommodation and testing were borne by the government. Contacts tracing of positive cases were prompt. Lockdowns were rapidly implemented in affected areas. 

Nationwide vaccination drive

With just 37 doctors, 1200 vaccination centers and less than 3000 healthcare workers, Bhutan vaccinated 93% of its eligible population within 9 days. A mammoth undertaking for a tiny nation. But it was made possible through carefully designed plans, as well as unity and trust of the people. 

Bhutan waited to acquire enough vaccines to conduct a nationwide vaccination drive. Consulted the astrologer and selected an auspicious date for the campaign. Rallied the entire nation for support. 

The nationwide vaccination campaign began on March 27. The population was inoculated with the first doses of AstraZeneca vaccines. 

Preparation for second vaccination drive

The AstraZeneca vaccines were gifts from its friendly neighbour, India, who is currently facing a dire healthcare crisis. As such, Prime Minister Dr Lotay Tshering mentioned in the CNN LIVE that the kingdom is requesting assistance from other countries even though Prime Minister Modi has agreed to continue helping Bhutan with their second doses.

Bhutan is reaching out to all the leaders in the world to support the Kingdom with their second doses of vaccines. Preferably with AstraZeneca but any approved vaccinations with proven track record would still be good for the country. 

source: Daily Bhutan(Ashley Chan)