Meghalaya’s lone COVID-19 patient who was doctor dies; 6 family members test positive

The 69-year-old doctor at Shillong's Bethany Hospital who passed away due to coronavirus had no travel history

Guwahati: The lone coronavirus patient in Meghalaya has died. The 69-year-old doctor's six family members who were in contact with him have also tested positive for the deadly virus.

According to reports, the doctor at Shillong's Bethany Hospital had no travel history. The doctor might have contracted the virus through a "silent carrier". The state government has launched a major search for one who has spread the disease. Over 2,000 people have been identified who were in contact with the doctor.

The state government has requested people who visited Shillong's Bethany Hospital on or before March 22 to come forward. It urged people to wear masks to prevent the spread of the fatal disease.



Coronavirus lockdown extended till May 3:

Addressing the nation via video conference on Tuesday, PM Narendra Modi said lockdown will be extended till May 3 to curb the spread of coronavirus.

Prime Minister Modi praised the states for their timely efforts. But he said that the way COVID-19 is continuing to spread across the world, is alarming.



"The path traversed by India has been responsible. Many have battled against this virus. We need to look at how to emerge victorious. Relentless meetings took place to help save lives and livelihood. Keeping everything in mind, it’s decided that the lockdown will be extended till May 3," said the Prime Minister.

Adding to it he said, "Till April 20, harsh steps will be taken to curtail the spread of coronavirus in the country. Hotspots will be carefully monitored. The state/district that will emerge as most responsible will witness some relaxations that could be introduced. If lockdown violations increase, relaxations will be revoked."