All the 16 test samples received from Delhi today on March 23 are negative for COVID-19. Out of 16 test samples, 12 reports are from Kargil and 4 from Leh district.

This was stated by Rigzin Samphel, Commissioner/ Secretary (Health) in a press conference on March 23. He on behalf of the Medical Department expressed gratitude to the general public for their cooperation in observing 'Janata curfew'.

He also made an appeal to the passengers coming from Delhi, Chandigarh and other places out of Union Territory of Ladakh must follow compulsory home quarantine for 14 days and should not come in physical contact with others and to contact District Hospitals of Leh and Kargil in case of any health-related issues.

He further requested the general public to use public transport and at the same time, those who experience the symptoms of COVID-19 and health-related issues should strictly avoid the use of public transport (Swaraj Mazda). 

He informed that in the coming days, free Ambulance services will be provided by UT Administration for such important/emergency cases.

In view of the increased work-load for the employees of Medical Department, Secretary Health made an appeal to the retried Medical Doctors of the district to join OPD for 3-4 hours time to assist in the workload of Medical employees and help in the fight against the spread of Novel Corona Virus.

"The condition of pilgrims who were evacuated from Iran and quarantined at Jaisalmer, Rajasthan are in a good condition and all the 13 positive cases in U.T. Ladakh is stable", he added.
Rigzin Samphel asserted that there is no special air-lifting services for the students studying outside Ladakh planning to travel back home. They are requested to use commercial airlines for their travel.