n outbreak in Paletwa continues to grow. A total of 112 have tested positive, of which 90 are still receiving medical care in the hospital in the southern Chin State town.

Hospital director Dr. Soe Thet Win told Khonumthung News all of his patients are in stable condition. Since the first infection happened in June, no one died from COVID-19 in the town, the doctor explained.

Although most of the cases are from Paletwa, there are 15 from Myeik Wa village and 2 from the town of Sami.

With a staff of 2 doctors, 23 nurses and a midwife, at this point in time the hospital can care for everyone, Dr. Soe Thet Win said. “Transportation remains a challenge” he explained.

For example, when they need to send a patient to the hospital in Kyauktaw, in Rakhine State, it is only possible via a crowded boat, risking the chance of infection.

Dr. Soe Thet Win said they quarantined 180 close contacts of the COVID-19 patients at High School No-1 in Paletwa, where there are also several health workers in isolation.