The first confirmed COVID-19 case in India was in the southern state of Kerala, home to some 35 million people. But before that case was discovered the state government had put a comprehensive plan in place, which swung into action and even as cases grew quickly flattened the curve.
The story though is far from over and a recent spike in cases as lockdown measures eased, has raised concern. Health officials attribute the increase to people coming home from other states and countries. They say that, while there has been some community transmission, the overwhelming majority of the cases have been discovered in quarantine.
Some worry, though, that celebrating success stories too early can cause people to lower their guard. And several experts have cautioned against other parts of India following Kerala’s example, pointing out each region has its own unique circumstances and characteristics that demand a unique response.
On this episode of The Stream we discuss Kerala’s initial success, what can be learned from it and we ask, can it be maintained?
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