The first Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) patient in the country has been evacuated to the United States of America for further medical treatment. The decision was made upon the request from his family members in the US and in close coordination with the USA government through its mission in Delhi.
The patient was evacuated today by a special Phoenix Air Ambulance from Bhutan to the US. The aircraft is medically equipped and has the necessary equipment and is also staffed with registered nurse and paramedics.
The 76-year-old man is from the United States of America, who had come to Bhutan as a tourist. He entered the country from Paro International Airport, from Guwahati, India on 2nd March.
He tested positive for COVID-19 on March 5th. Following that, he was isolated in the isolation ward identified for COVID-19 patients and was given care by a team of dedicated medical professionals.
The patient had multiple pre-existing medical conditions, which put him under high risk of complications.
Samten Dolkar