It’s no secret that the COVID-19 pandemic has wreaked havoc on the world and while we may feel like we’ve seen the worst of it thanks to our incredibly efficient government, we mustn’t forget that isn’t the case around the world.

What’s happening?

India, in particular, have been struggling with the COVID-19 crisis as their numbers get higher and they’re starting to reach a breaking point. On April 24, 349, 692 COVID-19 cases were recorded in India. This was the third day in a row that India has the highest number of total daily cases worldwide. Journalists and independent researchers are speculating that these numbers are inaccurate and suppressed, suggesting that the number of cases is much higher.

With resources running low, their healthcare system is under immense pressure to cater to all those affected. Oxygen shortages have already been reported in multiple states and thankfully, other countries including the UAE are stepping up to help out. Just earlier today, UAE sent out 12 critical oxygen tankers to India.

How bad is it?

With oxygen cylinders running low, many more patients are at-risk of passing away. A hospital in Delhi ran out of oxygen and lost 20 patients because of it. 

Due to the increasing number of infections, helplines are jammed, there are long queues outside hospitals and  mass creamtions are taking place. If you’re wondering just how bad it really is, there are even lines of dead bodies queued on the ground outside creamtoriums.

This is also after crematoriums have moved to operate 24/7 and new makeshift ones are being set up as well.

How can I help if I’m not in India?

1. Donate: Donate in whichever capacity possible. The resource below includes a compilation of organizations that are accepting donations from those outside the country, alongside what the money is put towards.

2. Awareness: If it isn’t within your means to donate, raise awareness! A lot of people might know something is happening but they may be unaware of the intensity and depth of the situation.

3. Demand action: If you live in the USA or the EU, reach out to your governments and representatives and urge them to help India.

4. Amplify: Amplify the voices of those in India. Hundreds of callouts and requests for resources, blood donations and more are being shared on social media, especially on Twitter. Search the hashtags #SOS and #SOSIndia to retweet these callouts and push the message out further.

Do your part in whichever capacity that might be, the world depends on it. This article will continue to be updated with more information and resources.