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1/n Long thread, but of crucial importance. The COVID-19 situation in India is as dire as can be. And it is not just THEIR problem, as long as virus circulates in the world, it becomes EVERYONE'S problem. We live in a global society; viruses don't respect national borders.
2/n This is, or was, a moment of historic importance for the US/ Biden administration to show leadership and solidarity. Recall the legacy of WW2 that established America as a world leader. Compare that to the leadership today.
3/n Now, let's get practical. I've spoken to several people on the ground in India, and here are the immediate needs in terms of priorities. Several field hospitals are being set up, but there are dire infrastructural needs.
4/nThe most immediate requirements are:
1. Liquid oxygen in tanks. The requirement is about 40-50,000 metric tons temporarily. Some of it has been procured from Germany, Japan and the M.East. There is a govt. tender to procure these from any supplier, including ones in the US.
1. Liquid oxygen in tanks. The requirement is about 40-50,000 metric tons temporarily. Some of it has been procured from Germany, Japan and the M.East. There is a govt. tender to procure these from any supplier, including ones in the US.
5/n 2. Military grade oxygen concentrators and refillable tanks. This is one example: https://www.hitechgas.com/oxygen/psa-based-oxygen-plant/military-grade-psa-based-oxygen-plant/
6/n 3. Dexamethasone and inhaled steroids are apparently in supply. But we are checking to see if adequate supplies are available in pharmacies.
7/n 4. Vaccine raw materials. The US needs to approve a "waiver" so that vaccine manufacture can continue. Leadership counts. Send letters, pleas, to whoever you know. India manufactures the bulk of vaccine for the world. A vaccine holdup in India has ricocheting consequences.
