India’s COVID Crisis
Following closely behind the United States and Brazil as the third country in the world to surpass 21 million COVID-19 cases, and the second in COVID related deaths, India is reeling from the pressures that this recent spike in infections is causing. With a healthcare system on the brink of collapse, and a severe lack of oxygen as many hospitals run out, families are desperately trying to source help privately in order to help their loved ones simply stay alive.
The surge in cases, as discussed by the Indian government has come as a surprise, though critics have stated that mixed messaging from leaders and officials on the premature loosening on restrictions, social distancing and mask-wearing amidst the pandemic caused the population to relax, thus allowing the virus to spread rapidly. Prior to state elections, the government also allowed crowd gatherings of considerable numbers for political rallies and Hindu religious festivals which may have also been a catalyst for the rise in cases. With the surge now being linked to a new “double mutant”, India’s top scientific advisor, K VijayRaghavan spoke at a news conference and admitted that the ferocity of this new spread was highly unexpected and warns that a third wave is inevitable.
With the UK scheduled to send an additional 1,000 ventilators to India, following an initial 600 pieces of equipment sent (including oxygen making machines) – the UK’s trade secretary Liz Truss has been set to discuss in which ways the UK and other nations can offer more assistance. as of now at least 11 regions of the country have re-imposed a ban on movement across the country in order to reduce infection rates, though the government is reluctant to announce a national lockdown due to the fears of it impacting the economic situation.
As of now the official number of deaths relating to COVID-19 in India stands at 230,168 and the number (which experts believe may, in fact, be higher) sadly remains increasing.
Source: BBC UK
Ways To Support:
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GoFundMe – 02 Concentrators for India
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Disaster Emergency Committee
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Unicef – Emergency COVID-19 Relief
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British Red Cross – Global Corona Virus Appeal
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Global Giving – India COVID-19 Relief Fund
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Aid India
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CAF India
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COVID – Give India
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Indian Red Cross
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The Hope Foundation
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International Medical Corps
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For advice or information on the Covid-19 Virus, we recommend that you thoroughly read the NHS’s Corona Virus Advice page.
If you or anyone you know are feeling unwell, and suspect you may have been in contact with an infected individual, then please (as instructed) self-isolate immediately, stay away from vulnerable persons, and call your local 111 services for further advice.
Please remember to wash your hands regularly, avoid touching your face with unwashed hands, think about others, and stay safe in this period! 
Love, Team EQUATE.