Few COVID 19 positive cases reported in Bhutanese communities in US, Canada

By C M Niroula

Few infection cases of COVID 19 have been reported among the Bhutanese American community. However, there are no reports of death as of 6 April. BNN tried reaching out to all possible contact to update the status Bhutanese communities in North America.

There’s no positive COVD cases reported in Chicago, Illinois and we are trying our best to help community members in need, informed Binod Khatiwada from Chicago. 

Binay Luitel informed BNN that there are eight positive cases of COVID 19 in Bhutanese community in Harrisburg PA, including an individual under treatment in hospital. Luitel said they have been advising the community members to avoid public gathering, stop visiting friends and families, and follow self-isolation guidelines issued by the government. Harrisburg hosts one of the largest resettled Bhutanese communities in the United States. 

One Bhutanese in Lancaster, PA has recovered from the infection while a couple tested positive and currently in self-isolation. There are no reports of infection in Pittsburg. 

Karna Gurung in Nebraska said there has been no reported case of COVID 19 in Nebraska. He said the community organisation is running awareness tools and resources for the community members. 

Similarly, Suraj Budathoki informed BNN of no positive cases being reported in New Hampshire. He said, ‘An individual was symptomatic but came back negative on testing.’

There were two families testing positive to COVID 19 Cincinnati, OH but have recovered after self-quarantine at home. Kamal Dhimal of Global Bhutanese Hindu Organisation said his organisation has also been helping disseminating information about COVID 19 to community members.

Kharendra Gautam of Bhutanese Canadian Association of Windsor informed BNN they have been providing all necessary support to community members when required. He said they are constantly relaying messages from the local health authorities to community members requesting to follow the guidelines. 

‘Bhutanese community in Ontario remains in safe and good health so far,’ said Chuda Bajgai from Guelph Bhutanese Community.