Lockdown should be removed in Katte Village, Chin State, only after they have health authorities can confirm that the COVID-19 virus is completely cleared off from the village, said Doza Tawang, the village administrator.

“In my opinion, we need a recommendation from the respective health authorities that the COVID-19 virus is completely cleared away in the village. It can put at ease doubts of over 3,600 villagers including me. The village is currently placed on a 14-day lockdown. The lockdown should only be removed after we have given guarantee that the virus is completely cleared off,” he said.

The lockdown on the village was placed from March 25 to April 7.

“Barriers are placed at the entry and exit of the village. Policemen, 100-household administrator, ten-household administrator and firefighters are taking duty in turn. One or two villagers went to the church to pray. Some came to me to ask permission to go to their hillside cultivation to drive out the animals as some animals from our village intruded in their farms. Staff from the healthcare department sprayed disinfectants and educated us about the virus. They also measured the body temperature of the families of people who are being quarantined. Volunteers took the body temperature of 36 people who are being quarantined. Their health is in good health,” he said.

The situation in the village is normal and no one is ill. There are two doctors who are volunteers and healthcare staff in the village. Foods are provided by donors and the Chin State government.