COVID-19 pandemic in Tamil Nadu#Total samples tested
{{Short description|none}}
{{Update|date=December 2021}}
{{Use Indian English|date=March 2020}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=March 2020}}
{{Infobox pandemic
| name = COVID-19 pandemic in Tamil Nadu
| image =
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| disease = COVID-19
| virus_strain = SARS-CoV-2
| location = Tamil Nadu, India
| first_case = Chennai and Erode
| arrival_date = 20 December 2019
| origin = Wuhan, Hubei, China
| confirmed_cases = 28,68,500 As of January 14, 2022
| active_cases = 1,03,610 As of January 14, 2022
| recovery_cases = 27,27,960 As of January 14, 2022
| deaths = 60,930 As of April 04, 2022
| fatality_rate = {{percentage
|{{formatnum: 60,930 |R}}
|{{formatnum: 28,68,500 |R}}
|2
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| suspected_cases =
| territories = All 38 districts{{refn|group=note|name=districts}}
| website = {{URL|https://stopcorona.tn.gov.in/}}
{{URL|https://nhmtn.maps.arcgis.com/apps/opsdashboard/index.html#/095ad0a1c0254b058fa36b32d1ab1977|Tamil Nadu COVID-19 Public dashboard}}
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The first case of the COVID-19 pandemic in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu was reported on 7 March 2020.
The largest single-day spike (36,987 cases) was reported on 13 May 2021 and Tamil Nadu now has the fourth highest number of confirmed cases in India after Maharashtra, Kerala and Karnataka. All 38 districts{{refn|group=note|name=districts |Cases from newly split Mayiladuthurai district is officially reported along with its parent district Nagapattinam}} of the state are affected by the pandemic, with capital district Chennai being the worst affected.
As per the Health Department, 88% of the patients are asymptomatic while 84% of deaths were among those with co-morbidities.{{Cite news|date=2020-05-26|title=84% of the deceased had co-morbidities: Minister|language=en-IN|work=The Hindu|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/84-of-the-deceased-had-co-morbidities-minister/article31674905.ece|access-date=2020-05-26|issn=0971-751X|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200526105730/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/84-of-the-deceased-had-co-morbidities-minister/article31674905.ece|archive-date=26 May 2020|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=https://theprint.in/health/tamil-nadu-is-containing-covid-19-well-and-it-is-not-following-bhilwara-model/403663/|title=Tamil Nadu is containing Covid-19 well, and it is not following Bhilwara model|last1=Chandna|first1=Himani|date=2020-04-17|website=ThePrint|language=en-US|access-date=2020-04-17}} In June, the state saw a surge in deaths with 209 deaths (36% of the state's recorded deaths) occurring between 11 and 16 June 2020.{{Cite web|title=Guess which day saw the highest number of Covid-19 deaths in Tamil Nadu?|url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/tamil-nadu/2020/jun/17/guess-which-day-saw-the-highest-number-of-covid-19-deaths-in-tamil-nadu-2157846.html|access-date=2020-06-18|website=The New Indian Express|date=17 June 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200617194518/https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/tamil-nadu/2020/jun/17/guess-which-day-saw-the-highest-number-of-covid-19-deaths-in-tamil-nadu-2157846.html|archive-date=17 June 2020|url-status=live}} Another large local cluster in Koyambedu of Chennai was identified in May 2020.{{Cite web|title=Over 35% Tamil Nadu coronavirus cases linked to Koyambedu market in Chennai|url=https://indianexpress.com/article/india/over-35-tn-cases-linked-to-a-market-in-chennai-6408861/|date=2020-05-14|website=The Indian Express|language=en-US|access-date=2020-05-14|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200518160543/https://indianexpress.com/article/india/over-35-tn-cases-linked-to-a-market-in-chennai-6408861/|archive-date=18 May 2020|url-status=live}}
The state government has responded to the outbreak by following a contact-tracing, testing and surveillance model.{{cite web|title=Tamil Nadu Prepares for Stage Two of Coronavirus Outbreak With More Home Quarantines, Surveillance|url=https://www.news18.com/news/india/tamil-nadu-prepares-for-stage-two-of-coronavirus-outbreak-with-more-home-quarantines-surveillance-2555261.html|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200329134259/https://www.news18.com/news/india/tamil-nadu-prepares-for-stage-two-of-coronavirus-outbreak-with-more-home-quarantines-surveillance-2555261.html|archive-date=29 March 2020|access-date=2020-03-31|website=News18|date=28 March 2020}} The state has 85 laboratories approved by Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), capable of conducting tests.The state was under a lockdown since 25 March which was relaxed to an extent from 4 May onwards. The lockdown was further extended until 30 June with significant relaxations from 1 June 2020. The state enforced a stricter lockdown in four majorly-affected districts, which included Chennai and its three neighbouring districts of Chengalpattu, Thiruvallur and Kancheepuram from 19 to 30 June 2020.{{Cite news|date=19 June 2020|title=Lockdown begins in Chennai, 3 districts today; surge in cases|work=The Indian Express|url=https://indianexpress.com/article/india/lockdown-begins-in-chennai-3-districts-today-surge-in-cases-6465698/|access-date=20 June 2020}}
Timeline of events
{{See also|Timeline of the COVID-19 pandemic in India}}
{{update section|date=January 2022}}
= March =
{{Sidebar timeline
| title = Major events in COVID19 pandemic in Tamil Nadu till 30 April
| years1 = 07 March
| color1 = tomato
| events1 = First confirmed case
| years2 = 15 March
| color2 = brown
| events2 = Closure of commercial establishments, schools and colleges
| years3 = 20 March
| color3 = brown
| events3 = State borders closed
| years4 = 22 March
| color4 = brown
| events4 = Janta Curfew - Nationwide
| years5 = 24 March
| color5 = brown
| events5 = Section 144 imposed
| years6 = 25 March
| color6 = black
| events6 = First reported death
Nationwide lockdown imposed till 14 April
| years7 = 31 March
| color7 = tomato
| events7 = 100 confirmed cases
First case identified from Sivan Temple function
| years8 = 11 April
| color8 = black
| events8 = 10 reported deaths
| years9 = 12 April
| color9 = tomato
| events9 = 1000 confirmed cases
| years10 = 14 April
| color10 = brown
| events10 = Nationwide lockdown extended till 3 May
| years11 = 15 April
| color11 = green
| events11 = 100 reported recoveries
| years12 = 21 April
| color12 = green
| events12 = 500 reported recoveries
| years13 = 25 April
| color13 = green
| events13 = Reported recoveries surpassed active cases
| years14 = 26 April
| color14 = green
| events14 = 1000 reported recoveries
| years15 = 28 April
| color15 = black
| events15 = 25 reported deaths
2000 confirmed cases
}}
The first case of coronavirus was confirmed on 7 March in a resident from Kanchipuram in Chennai. He had returned from Oman and started developing symptoms including fever and cough.{{Cite news|url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics-and-nation/tamil-nadu-reports-first-case-of-coronavirus-patient-quarantined-in-government-hospital-in-chennai/articleshow/74529929.cms|title=Tamil Nadu reports first case of Coronavirus; patient quarantined in Chennai Government Hospital|date=2020-03-09|work=The Economic Times|access-date=2020-03-31}} He was isolated in Rajiv Gandhi Government General Hospital. Later, on 10 March, he recovered and tested negative.{{cite web|url=https://www.deccanherald.com/national/south/coronavirus-no-fresh-covid-19-cases-in-tamil-nadu-812479.html|title=Coronavirus: No fresh COVID-19 cases in Tamil Nadu|date=10 March 2020|website=Deccan Herald|access-date=10 March 2020}}
After more than a week without new cases, on 18 March, the second person who had travelled by train from Delhi to Chennai confirmed positive. He did not have any history of foreign travel and was described as a domestic case by the state health minister C. Vijayabaskar.{{cite news|title=Tamil Nadu's 2nd Coronavirus patient raises community transmission fears|url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics-and-nation/tamil-nadus-2nd-coronavirus-patient-raises-community-transmission-fears/articleshow/74702335.cms|newspaper=Economic Times|date=19 March 2020|access-date=19 March 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200319193205/https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics-and-nation/tamil-nadus-2nd-coronavirus-patient-raises-community-transmission-fears/articleshow/74702335.cms|archive-date=19 March 2020|url-status=live}}
On 19 March, a 21-year-old student who returned from Ireland tested positive.{{cite web|url=https://www.business-standard.com/article/health/coronavirus-live-updates-total-covid-19-cases-in-india-death-toll-latest-news-global-market-crash-recession-120031900563_1.html|title=Coronavirus LIVE: India's death toll rises to four|website=Business Standard|date=19 March 2020 |access-date=19 March 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200319161417/https://www.business-standard.com/article/health/coronavirus-live-updates-total-covid-19-cases-in-india-death-toll-latest-news-global-market-crash-recession-120031900563_1.html|archive-date=19 March 2020|url-status=live}}
On 21 March, a further three were confirmed positive - A Chennai man who had travelled from New Zealand{{Cite news|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/chennai/three-more-covid-19-cases-in-state-one-with-no-travel-history/article31146918.ece|title=Three more COVID-19 cases in State, one with no travel history|date=2020-03-24|work=The Hindu|access-date=2020-03-30|language=en-IN|issn=0971-751X|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200324184127/https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/chennai/three-more-covid-19-cases-in-state-one-with-no-travel-history/article31146918.ece|archive-date=24 March 2020|url-status=live}} and two Thailand nationals in Erode.{{cite web|url=https://www.deccanherald.com/national/south/tamil-nadu-reports-17-fresh-coronavirus-cases-tally-now-67-819262.html|title=Tamil Nadu reports 17 fresh coronavirus cases; tally now 67|date=2020-03-30|website=Deccan Herald|language=en|access-date=2020-03-30}} They were admitted to IRT Hospital in Perundurai in Erode. More than 300 people who had come in contact with the three patients were quarantined.{{cite web|url=https://www.deccanherald.com/national/south/tamil-nadu-reports-7th-positive-coronavirus-case-816543.html|title=Tamil Nadu reports 7th positive coronavirus case|date=2020-03-22|website=Deccan Herald|language=en|access-date=2020-03-31}}
On 25 March, the first virus-related death in the state was reported after a 54-year-old man in Madurai died.{{cite web|url=https://www.patrikai.com/first-corona-death-in-tn-madurai-men-of-54-years-old-expired/|title=மதுரையில் தமிழகத்தின் முதல் கொரோனா பலி : 54 வயது நபர் மரணம் |date=2020-03-25|website=Tamil News patrikai|language=en-US|access-date=2020-03-28|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200328044912/https://www.patrikai.com/first-corona-death-in-tn-madurai-men-of-54-years-old-expired/|archive-date=28 March 2020|url-status=live}} Five others were infected - four Indonesians and their travel guide from Chennai.{{cite news|url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics-and-nation/tamil-nadu-reports-five-new-coronavirus-cases-tally-goes-up-to-23/articleshow/74810591.cms|title=Tamil Nadu reports five new coronavirus cases; tally goes up to 23|newspaper=Economic Times|date = 26 March 2020}} The five were in quarantine since 22 March in Salem Medical College.{{cite web|url=https://www.thenewsminute.com/article/tn-reports-5-new-cases-covid-19-includes-4-indonesian-travellers-and-1-chennai-man-121103|title=TN reports 5 new cases of COVID-19, includes 4 Indonesian travellers and 1 Chennai man|date=25 March 2020|website=The News Minute|access-date=2020-03-30}}
On 28 March, a 21-year-old youth who had just returned from a trip to Dublin, Ireland was discharged from the hospital.{{cite news|url=https://wap.business-standard.com/article/news-ani/covid-19-positive-tamil-nadu-man-with-travel-history-to-ireland-recovers-120032800122_1.html|title=Covid-19 positive Tamil Nadu man with travel history to Ireland recovers|date=28 March 2020|newspaper=Business Standard India|language=en|access-date=28 March 2020}} Two new cases - one each in Kumbakonam and Katpadi were reported. With this, the total number of confirmed cases had reached 40 in the state.{{cite web|url=https://stopcoronatn.in/files/Media_Bulletin_28_03_2020.pdf|url-status=live|title=Media Bulletin 28 March 2020|website=Health & Family Welfare Department Government of Tamil Nadu|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200328125841/https://stopcoronatn.in/files/Media_Bulletin_28_03_2020.pdf|archive-date=28 March 2020|access-date=28 March 2020}}
On 29 March, the state reported eight more cases (four each from Coimbatore and Erode), all of which were linked to the two Thai nationals and their group who had tested positive. The eight included a 10-month-old baby.{{Cite news|url=https://www.deccanherald.com/national/south/10-month-old-baby-and-7-more-test-positive-for-covid-19-in-tamil-nadu-states-tally-rises-to-50-818967.html|title=10-month-old baby and 7 more test positive for COVID-19 in Tamil Nadu; state's tally rises to 50|date=29 March 2020|work=Deccan Herald|access-date=29 March 2020|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200329142751/https://www.deccanherald.com/national/south/10-month-old-baby-and-7-more-test-positive-for-covid-19-in-tamil-nadu-states-tally-rises-to-50-818967.html|archive-date=29 March 2020}} The total number of confirmed cases reached 50.{{cite web|url=https://stopcorona.tn.gov.in/files/Media_Bulletin_29_03_2020_1_Page_English_77_KB.pdf|url-status=dead|title=Media Bulletin 29 March 2020|website=Health & Family Welfare Department Government of Tamil Nadu|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200401070556/https://stopcorona.tn.gov.in/files/Media_Bulletin_29_03_2020_1_Page_English_77_KB.pdf|archive-date=1 April 2020|access-date=30 March 2020}}
On 30 March, 17 new cases were reported, highest to date in the state - 10 male patients from Erode, all of whom have travelled to Delhi were in contact with the Thailand tourists, 5 in Chennai and 1 each in Karur and Madurai.{{cite web|url=https://stopcorona.tn.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Media_Bulletin_30_03_2020_5_Pages_English_226_KB-1.pdf|title=Media Bulletin 30 March 2020|website=Health & Family Welfare Department Government of Tamil Nadu|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200414131304/https://stopcorona.tn.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Media_Bulletin_30_03_2020_5_Pages_English_226_KB-1.pdf|archive-date=14 April 2020}}
File:Corona helmet of Chennai cop.jpg
On 31 March, 57 new cases were reported, all with a history of travel predominately to Delhi, bringing the total to 124.{{Cite news|url=https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/tamil-nadu-reports-57-new-covid-19-cases-in-one-day-79-attended-tablighi-jamaat-state-tally-at-124-1661904-2020-03-31|title=Tamil Nadu reports 57 new Covid-19 cases in one day, 79% attended Tablighi Jamaat. State tally at 124|work=India Today|access-date=1 April 2020}} It was the highest single day rise to date. 50 of these cases were from Namakkal (18), Tirunelveli (22), Kanyakumari (4) Villupuram (3), Madurai (2) and Thoothukudi (1), all had travel history to Delhi.{{cite web|url=https://stopcorona.tn.gov.in/files/Media_Bulletin_31.03.2020_2_Pages_English_118_KB.pdf|title=Media Bulletin 31 March 2020|website=Health & Family Welfare Department Government of Tamil Nadu|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200401070737/https://stopcorona.tn.gov.in/files/Media_Bulletin_31.03.2020_2_Pages_English_118_KB.pdf|archive-date=1 April 2020|access-date=1 April 2020}} Officials had discovered that at least 80 out of 124 confirmed cases (79 per cent) in Tamil Nadu were from one cluster as they are direct or indirect contact of the two Thai nationals who had tested positive for on 21 March. The Thai nationals, identified as patients 5 and 6 were part of a large group from countries including Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, etc. who had visited the state for an annual pilgrimage.{{Cite news|last=M|first=Serena Josephine|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/25-of-67-patients-directly-or-indirectly-linked-to-thai-nationals/article31212197.ece|title=25 of 67 patients directly or indirectly linked to Thai nationals|date=2020-03-30|work=The Hindu|access-date=2020-03-31|language=en-IN|issn=0971-751X|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200331163219/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/25-of-67-patients-directly-or-indirectly-linked-to-thai-nationals/article31212197.ece|archive-date=31 March 2020|url-status=live}} This group had also attended a 3-day Tablighi Jamaat congregation in Nizamuddin Markaz mosque, New Delhi in early March.{{cite web|url=https://www.deccanherald.com/national/south/coronavirus-25-out-of-67-in-tamil-nadu-have-contact-or-travel-history-with-thai-nationals-819372.html|title=Coronavirus: 25 out of 67 in Tamil Nadu have contact or travel history with Thai nationals|date=2020-03-30|website=Deccan Herald|language=en|access-date=2020-03-31}} It was estimated that more than 1,500 people from the state had participated in this event.{{cite web|url=https://www.news18.com/news/india/coimbatore-erode-stare-at-crisis-as-tamil-nadu-govt-races-to-trace-scores-back-from-nizamuddin-event-2558131.html|title=Coimbatore, Erode Stare at Crisis as Tamil Nadu Govt Races to Trace Scores Back from Nizamuddin Event|website=News18|date=31 March 2020 |access-date=2020-03-31|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200401020556/https://www.news18.com/news/india/coimbatore-erode-stare-at-crisis-as-tamil-nadu-govt-races-to-trace-scores-back-from-nizamuddin-event-2558131.html|archive-date=1 April 2020|url-status=live}} Officials also confirmed that the 54-year-old patient who had died the previous week had also participated in the gathering. Of 1,500 people who were in the gathering, 1,130 had returned to the state. The government had identified and isolated 515 of the 1,130 people. It faced difficulty while trying to map the rest. It had urged people who attended the gathering to step forward and get tested.{{cite web|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/tamil-nadu-reports-50-more-covid-19-cases/articleshow/74917772.cms|title=Tamil Nadu Coronavirus update: Tamil Nadu reports 50 more Covid-19 cases |date=March 31, 2020|first=Pushpa |last=Narayan |website=The Times of India|language=en|access-date=2020-04-01|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200331211819/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/tamil-nadu-reports-50-more-covid-19-cases/articleshow/74917772.cms|archive-date=31 March 2020|url-status=live}} Following this, the Nizamuddin Markaz emerged as a new virus hotspot.{{cite web|url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/how-nizamuddin-markaz-became-a-hotspot-for-covid-19-8-000-people-identified/story-zedKlaDNTPpbDLdMsgExAM.html|title=How Nizamuddin markaz became Covid-19 hotspot; more than 8,000 attendees identified|date=2020-04-02|website=Hindustan Times|language=en|access-date=2020-04-06|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200402162727/https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/how-nizamuddin-markaz-became-a-hotspot-for-covid-19-8-000-people-identified/story-zedKlaDNTPpbDLdMsgExAM.html|archive-date=2 April 2020|url-status=live}}
= April =
On 1 April, the state reported 110 new cases, all attended the Delhi Nizamuddin event. The total became 234.{{cite web|url=https://stopcorona.tn.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Media_Bulletin_01.04.2020_6_Pages_English_318_KB.pdf|url-status=live|title=Media Bulletin 1 April 2020|website=Health & Family Welfare Department Government of Tamil Nadu|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200407060455/https://stopcorona.tn.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Media_Bulletin_01.04.2020_6_Pages_English_318_KB.pdf|archive-date=7 April 2020}}
{{cite web|url=https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/tamil-nadu-new-coronavirus-cases-linked-nizamuddin-event-tabligh-1662243-2020-04-01|title=Tamil Nadu reports 110 new coronavirus cases, all linked to Nizamuddin event|last=Lobo|first=Shalini|website=India Today|date=April 2020 |language=en|access-date=1 April 2020}}{{cite web|url=https://www.thenewsminute.com/article/110-more-cases-tamil-nadu-wednesday-all-attended-delhi-jamaat-conference-121630|title=110 more cases in Tamil Nadu on Wednesday, all attended Delhi Jamaat conference|website=The News Minute|date=April 2020 |url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200402005422/https://www.thenewsminute.com/article/110-more-cases-tamil-nadu-wednesday-all-attended-delhi-jamaat-conference-121630|archive-date=2 April 2020|access-date=2 April 2020}} Health Secretary Beela Rajesh said that 1103 out of 1500 attendees of the event had been traced and isolated. 658 of their samples had been tested of which,190 tested positive.{{Cite news|url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics-and-nation/covid-19-tamil-nadu-witnesses-steep-rise-in-cases/articleshow/74935016.cms|title=Covid-19: Tamil Nadu witnesses steep rise in cases|date=2020-04-01|work=The Economic Times|access-date=2020-04-02|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200401210601/https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics-and-nation/covid-19-tamil-nadu-witnesses-steep-rise-in-cases/articleshow/74935016.cms|archive-date=1 April 2020|url-status=live}} Some of the participants approached officials themselves after government's request. Family members and close contacts were either taken to quarantine facilities or home quarantined.{{cite web|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/special-containment-plan-for-tj-group/articleshow/74939483.cms|title=Tamil Nadu: Special containment plan for Tablighi Jamaat group |date=April 2, 2020|first=Pushpa |last=Narayan |website=The Times of India|language=en|access-date=2020-04-02}}
On 2 April, 75 new cases were reported, of which 74 of them attended Tablighi Jamaat in Delhi.{{cite web|url=https://stopcorona.tn.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Media-Bulletin-02-04-20-COVID-19-6-PM.pdf|url-status=live|title=Media Bulletin 2 April 2020|website=Health & Family Welfare Department Government of Tamil Nadu|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200424171650/https://stopcorona.tn.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Media-Bulletin-02-04-20-COVID-19-6-PM.pdf|archive-date=24 April 2020}}
On 3 April, 102 new cases were reported, of which 100 were Delhi event participants. Two others were from Chennai, one with co-morbid condition and one US-returnee.{{cite web|url=https://stopcorona.tn.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Media-Bulletin-03-04-20-COVID-19-6-PM.pdf|url-status=live|title=Media Bulletin 3 April 2020|website=Health & Family Welfare Department Government of Tamil Nadu|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200404185030/https://stopcorona.tn.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Media-Bulletin-03-04-20-COVID-19-6-PM.pdf|archive-date=4 April 2020}}
On 4 April, 74 new cases were reported, of which 69 were Delhi event participants, 4 were contacts of the event participants. One was from Chennai.{{cite web|url=https://stopcorona.tn.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Media-Bulletin-04-04-20-COVID-19-6-PM.pdf|url-status=live|title=Media Bulletin 4 April 2020|website=Health & Family Welfare Department Government of Tamil Nadu|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200414131307/https://stopcorona.tn.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Media-Bulletin-04-04-20-COVID-19-6-PM.pdf|archive-date=14 April 2020}}
{{Cite news|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/74-new-cases-take-tamil-nadus-total-to-485/article31259992.ece|title=Coronavirus {{!}} 74 new cases take Tamil Nadu's total to 485|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200405032029/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/74-new-cases-take-tamil-nadus-total-to-485/article31259992.ece|archive-date=5 April 2020}} Two more deaths were reported, a 51 years old male who attended Tablighi Jamaat at Villupuram and a female at Theni Government hospital.{{Cite news|url=https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/news/national/two-dead-of-covid-19-in-tamil-nadu/article31258200.ece|title=Two dead of Covid-19 in Tamil Nadu|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200407055948/https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/news/national/two-dead-of-covid-19-in-tamil-nadu/article31258200.ece|archive-date=7 April 2020}}
On 5 April, 86 new cases were reported of which 85 are related to Delhi event directly or indirectly. A 71 year old from Ramanathapuram who died on Thursday was tested positive. A 60 year old also died in the same hospital as previous patient.{{Cite news|last=Sujatha|first=R.|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/coronavirus-tn-reports-86-more-covid-19-cases-total-spikes-to-571/article31263138.ece|title=Coronavirus {{!}} Tamil Nadu reports 86 new cases, two more patients die|date=2020-04-05|work=The Hindu|access-date=2020-04-06|language=en-IN|issn=0971-751X|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200406035038/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/coronavirus-tn-reports-86-more-covid-19-cases-total-spikes-to-571/article31263138.ece|archive-date=6 April 2020|url-status=live}} The Health department revealed that 1246 contacts of Tablighi Jamaat participants have been traced and isolated so far.{{cite web|url=https://stopcorona.tn.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Media-Bulletin-05-04-20-COVID-19-6-PM.pdf|url-status=live|title=Media Bulletin 5 April 2020|website=Health & Family Welfare Department Government of Tamil Nadu|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200405215542/https://stopcorona.tn.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Media-Bulletin-05-04-20-COVID-19-6-PM.pdf|archive-date=5 April 2020}}
On 6 April, 50 new cases were reported bringing the total cases to 621. 48 of them were returnees of Delhi event.{{cite web|url=https://stopcorona.tn.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Media-Bulletin-06-04-20-COVID-19-6-PM-1.pdf|url-status=live|title=Media Bulletin 6 April 2020|website=Health & Family Welfare Department Government of Tamil Nadu|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200406132432/https://stopcorona.tn.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Media-Bulletin-06-04-20-COVID-19-6-PM-1.pdf|archive-date=6 April 2020}}
101 people who attended a COVID-19 victim's burial were home-quarantined in Ramanathapuram. They were not aware of his condition as the test result returned positive after only two days his burial.{{cite web|url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/tamil-nadu/2020/apr/06/over-100-quarantined-after-covid-19-victim-buried-without-precautions-in-tamil-nadu-2126260.html|title=Over 100 quarantined after COVID-19 victim buried without precautions in Tamil Nadu|website=The New Indian Express|access-date=2020-04-06|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200407123052/https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/tamil-nadu/2020/apr/06/over-100-quarantined-after-covid-19-victim-buried-without-precautions-in-tamil-nadu-2126260.html|archive-date=7 April 2020|url-status=live}}
On 7 April, 69 new cases were reported, of which 63 were related to Delhi event.{{cite web|url=https://stopcorona.tn.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Media-Bulletin-07-04-20-COVID-19-6-PM-revised.pdf|url-status=live|title=Media Bulletin 7 April 2020|website=Health & Family Welfare Department Government of Tamil Nadu|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200407141921/https://stopcorona.tn.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Media-Bulletin-07-04-20-COVID-19-6-PM-revised.pdf|archive-date=7 April 2020}}
On 8 April, 48 new cases were reported bringing total to 738. 42 of those are connected to Tablighi Jamaat in Delhi.{{cite web|url=https://stopcorona.tn.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Media-Bulletin-08-04-20-COVID-19-6-PM.pdf|url-status=live|title=Media Bulletin 8 April 2020|website=Health & Family Welfare Department Government of Tamil Nadu|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200408133536/https://stopcorona.tn.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Media-Bulletin-08-04-20-COVID-19-6-PM.pdf|archive-date=8 April 2020}}
One among the 42 is a Malaysian national. Government had revealed that 1480 attendees of the Delhi event were traced and isolated. 1716 samples from them and their contacts were tested, of which 679 had returned positive.{{Cite news|url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/tamil-nadu/2020/apr/09/tamil-nadu-reports-48-new-covid19-cases-tally-climbs-to-738-2127606.html|title=Tamil Nadu reports 48 new COVID19 cases, tally climbs to 738}}
On 9 April, the state reported 96 new cases which brought the total cases to 834.{{cite web|url=https://stopcorona.tn.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Media-Bulletin09.04.20-5-Pages-English-173-KB.pdf|url-status=live|title=Media Bulletin 9 April 2020|website=Health & Family Welfare Department Government of Tamil Nadu|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200409140149/https://stopcorona.tn.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Media-Bulletin09.04.20-5-Pages-English-173-KB.pdf|archive-date=9 April 2020}}
On 10 April, 77 new cases were reported bringing total to 911. 17 cases were clinically recovered, bringing the total recovered to 44.{{cite web|url=https://stopcorona.tn.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Media-Bulletin-10-04-20-COVID-19-6-PM.pdf|url-status=live|title=Media Bulletin 10 April 2020|website=Health & Family Welfare Department Government of Tamil Nadu|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200411011448/https://stopcorona.tn.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Media-Bulletin-10-04-20-COVID-19-6-PM.pdf|archive-date=11 April 2020}}
On 11 April, 58 new cases were reported bringing the total to 969 of which, 47 belonged to the Delhi cluster.{{cite web|url=https://stopcorona.tn.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Media-Bulletin-11.04.2020-4-Pages-English-176-KB.pdf|url-status=live|title=Media Bulletin 11 April 2020|website=Health & Family Welfare Department Government of Tamil Nadu|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200424171719/https://stopcorona.tn.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Media-Bulletin-11.04.2020-4-Pages-English-176-KB.pdf|archive-date=24 April 2020}} One more died in IRT Government Hospital at Perundurai in Erode, taking the death toll to 10. The state government revealed that it will decide on the lockdown extension based on Centre's announcement.{{cite web|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/tamil-nadu-awaits-pms-announcement-on-lockdown-extension-reports-58-more-covid-19-cases-and-one-more-death/articleshow/75098435.cms|title=Tamil Nadu awaits PM's announcement on lockdown extension, reports 58 more Covid-19 cases and one more death|last=Mariappan|first=Julie|website=The Times of India|language=en|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200412040333/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/tamil-nadu-awaits-pms-announcement-on-lockdown-extension-reports-58-more-covid-19-cases-and-one-more-death/articleshow/75098435.cms|archive-date=12 April 2020|access-date=2020-04-11}}
On 12 April, 106 new cases were reported bringing the total to 1075.{{cite web|url=https://stopcorona.tn.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Media-Bulletin-12.04.2020-5-pages-English-178-KB.pdf|url-status=live|title=Media Bulletin 12 April 2020|website=Health & Family Welfare Department Government of Tamil Nadu|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200412182422/https://stopcorona.tn.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Media-Bulletin-12.04.2020-5-pages-English-178-KB.pdf|archive-date=12 April 2020}}
One death was reported, a 45-year-old women died on previous day evening, she was undergoing treatment at a Government Hospital in Chennai.{{cite web|url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/tamil-nadu/2020/apr/13/covid-19-tamil-nadu-scales-1000-mark-93560-people-quarantined-for-28-days-2129281.html|title=COVID-19: Tamil Nadu scales 1000-mark, 93,560 people quarantined for 28 days|website=The New Indian Express|access-date=2020-04-13|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200413023709/https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/tamil-nadu/2020/apr/13/covid-19-tamil-nadu-scales-1000-mark-93560-people-quarantined-for-28-days-2129281.html|archive-date=13 April 2020|url-status=live}} The new infections were found in clusters in Chennai - where four were primary sources and Coimbatore - where two primary sources were identified. According to the health department, of the 106 new cases, 90 contracted the infection from them 16 people who had travel history.{{cite news|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/coronavirus-one-more-death-106-fresh-cases-in-tamil-nadu/article31325855.ece|title=Coronavirus {{!}} One more death, 106 fresh cases in Tamil Nadu|date=2020-04-13|work=The Hindu|access-date=2020-04-13|language=en-IN|issn=0971-751X|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200413065713/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/coronavirus-one-more-death-106-fresh-cases-in-tamil-nadu/article31325855.ece|archive-date=13 April 2020|url-status=live}}
On 13 April, 98 new cases were reported bringing the total to 1173.{{cite web|url=https://stopcorona.tn.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Media-Bulletin-13.04.2020-5pages-English-181-KB.pdf|url-status=live|title=Media Bulletin 13 April 2020|website=Health & Family Welfare Department Government of Tamil Nadu|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200414095728/https://stopcorona.tn.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Media-Bulletin-13.04.2020-5pages-English-181-KB.pdf|archive-date=14 April 2020}}
On 14 April, 31 new cases were reported bringing the total to 1204. It was the lowest daily rise since 31 March.{{cite web|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/tamil-nadu-reports-lowest-daily-rise-in-covid-19-cases-since-march-31-missing-patient-secured/articleshow/75145246.cms|title=Tamil Nadu reports lowest daily rise in Covid-19 cases since March 31; missing patient secured|last1=Narayan|first1=Pushpa|last2=Marx|first2=Karal|website=The Times of India|language=en|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200415054221/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/tamil-nadu-reports-lowest-daily-rise-in-covid-19-cases-since-march-31-missing-patient-secured/articleshow/75145246.cms|archive-date=15 April 2020|access-date=2020-04-15}} A 96-year-old died, making the total of 12 deaths in the state.{{cite web|url=https://stopcorona.tn.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Media-Bulletin-14.04.2020-4-Pages-English-175-KB.pdf|url-status=live|title=Media Bulletin 14 April 2020|website=Health & Family Welfare Department Government of Tamil Nadu|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200424171759/https://stopcorona.tn.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Media-Bulletin-14.04.2020-4-Pages-English-175-KB.pdf|archive-date=24 April 2020}}
On 15 April, 38 new cases were reported in the state of which, 34 were related to Delhi cluster.{{cite web|url=https://stopcorona.tn.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Media-Bulletin-15.04.2020.pdf|url-status=live|title=Media Bulletin 15 April 2020|website=Health & Family Welfare Department Government of Tamil Nadu|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200415135147/https://stopcorona.tn.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Media-Bulletin-15.04.2020.pdf|archive-date=15 April 2020}}
Deaths of two men were reported, a 47-year-old man with SARI in Stanley Government hospital, Chennai and a 59-year-old man in a private hospital, making the total of 14 deaths in the state.{{cite web|url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/tamil-nadu/2020/apr/15/two-men-die-of-covid-19-in-tamil-nadu-toll-now-14-1242-people-infected-2130568.html|title=Two men die of COVID-19 in Tamil Nadu, toll now 14; 1242 people infected|website=The New Indian Express|access-date=2020-04-16}}
On 16 April, 25 new cases were reported bringing total to 1267. One death was reported making total of 15 deaths in the state{{cite web|url=https://stopcorona.tn.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Media-Bulletin16.04.2020-4-Pages-English-174-KB.pdf|url-status=live|title=Media Bulletin 16 April 2020|website=Health & Family Welfare Department Government of Tamil Nadu|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200424171827/https://stopcorona.tn.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Media-Bulletin16.04.2020-4-Pages-English-174-KB.pdf|archive-date=24 April 2020}}
On 17 April, 56 new cases were reported which brought the total to 1323.{{cite web|url=https://stopcorona.tn.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Media-Bulletin-17.04.2020.pdf|url-status=live|title=Media Bulletin 17 April 2020|website=Health & Family Welfare Department Government of Tamil Nadu|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200417190133/https://stopcorona.tn.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Media-Bulletin-17.04.2020.pdf|archive-date=17 April 2020}}
On 18 April, 49 new cases were reported which brought the total to 1372. 82 patients were discharged making total recovered cases as 365.{{cite web|url=https://www.dinamalar.com/news/tamil-nadu-news/news/2523452 |title=தமிழகத்தில் கொரோனாவுக்கு 1372 பேர் பாதிப்பு; 15 பேர் பலி| Coronavirus cases in Tamil Nadu rise to 1372 |publisher=Dinamalar |date= 18 April 2020|access-date=2020-04-18}}{{cite web|url=https://stopcorona.tn.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Media-Bulletin-18.04.2020.pdf|url-status=live|title=Media Bulletin 18 April 2020|website=Health & Family Welfare Department Government of Tamil Nadu|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200424171856/https://stopcorona.tn.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Media-Bulletin-18.04.2020.pdf|archive-date=24 April 2020}}
On 19 April, 105 new cases were reported, third highest daily increase to date. 46 patients were discharged making total recovered cases as 411.{{cite web|url=https://stopcorona.tn.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Media-Bulletin-19-04-20-COVID-19-6-PM.pdf|url-status=live|title=Media Bulletin 19 April 2020|website=Health & Family Welfare Department Government of Tamil Nadu|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200424172016/https://stopcorona.tn.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Media-Bulletin-19-04-20-COVID-19-6-PM.pdf|archive-date=24 April 2020}}
On 20 April, 43 new cases reported in Tamil Nadu bringing the total cases in Tamil Nadu to 1,520.{{cite web|url=https://stopcorona.tn.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Media-Bulletin-20.04.2020.pdf|url-status=live|title=Media Bulletin 20 April 2020|website=Health & Family Welfare Department Government of Tamil Nadu|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200424172021/https://stopcorona.tn.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Media-Bulletin-20.04.2020.pdf|archive-date=24 April 2020}}
The infection rate in the state had dropped from 13% on 1 April 2020 to 3.6%.{{Cite news|last=Dubey|first=Jyotindra|url=https://www.business-standard.com/article/health/covid-19-delhi-has-highest-infection-rate-tamil-nadu-is-showing-recovery-120042000685_1.html|title=Covid-19: Delhi has highest infection rate, Tamil Nadu is showing recovery|date=2020-04-20|work=Business Standard India|access-date=2020-04-24|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200424134338/https://www.business-standard.com/article/health/covid-19-delhi-has-highest-infection-rate-tamil-nadu-is-showing-recovery-120042000685_1.html|archive-date=24 April 2020|url-status=live}}
On 22 April, 33 new cases reported in Tamil Nadu bringing the total cases to 1,629. 27 patients were discharged making total discharged to 662. No death were reported for the day.{{cite web|url=https://stopcorona.tn.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Media-Bulletin-22.04.2020.pdf|url-status=live|title=Media Bulletin 22 April 2020|website=Health & Family Welfare Department Government of Tamil Nadu|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200424172029/https://stopcorona.tn.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Media-Bulletin-22.04.2020.pdf|archive-date=24 April 2020}}
On 23 April, Dharmapuri district reported its first COVID-19 case, 54 new cases were reported in the state bringing the total cases to 1,683. 2 more died. 90 patients were discharged making total discharged to 752.{{cite web|url=https://stopcorona.tn.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Media-Bulletin-23.04.2020.pdf|url-status=live|title=Media Bulletin 23 April 2020|website=Health & Family Welfare Department Government of Tamil Nadu|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200424172034/https://stopcorona.tn.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Media-Bulletin-23.04.2020.pdf|archive-date=24 April 2020}}
On 24 April, 72 new cases were reported, of which 52 cases are from Chennai, Total confirmed cases stood at 1755. 2 more died which took the total fatality to 22. 114 patients were discharged making total discharged to 886.{{cite web|url=https://stopcorona.tn.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Media-Bulletin-24.04.2020.pdf|url-status=live|title=Media Bulletin 24 April 2020|website=Health & Family Welfare Department Government of Tamil Nadu|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200424172040/https://stopcorona.tn.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Media-Bulletin-24.04.2020.pdf|archive-date=24 April 2020}}
On 28 April, with 121 new reported cases, the total number crossed 2000 to become 2058. Chennai continued to be the worst-hit district with 103 new cases. It had 673 cases, which was {{percent|673|2058|0}} of all the cases in Tamil Nadu.{{cite web|url=https://stopcorona.tn.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Media-Bulletin-28.04.2020.pdf|url-status=live|title=Media Bulletin 28 April 2020|website=Health & Family Welfare Department Government of Tamil Nadu|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200428135554/https://stopcorona.tn.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Media-Bulletin-28.04.2020.pdf|archive-date=28 April 2020}}
= May =
{{Sidebar timeline
| title = Major events in COVID19 pandemic in Tamil Nadu since 30 April
| years1 = First week of May
| color1 = tomato
| events1 = Koyambedu Wholesale Market Complex cluster identified
| years2 = 2 May
| color2 = brown
| events2 = Active cases again surpasses recoveries
| years3 = 3 May
| color3 = tomato
| events3 = 3000 confirmed cases
| years4 = 5 May
| color4 = tomato
| events4 = 4000 confirmed cases
| years5 = 6 May
| color5 = green
| events5 = 1500 reported recoveries
|years6=8 May
|color6=tomato
|events6=5000 confirmed cases
|years7=11 May
|color7=tomato
|events7=8000 confirmed cases
|years8=15 May
|color8=tomato
|events8=10000 confirmed cases
|years9=29 May
|color9=tomato
|events9=20000 confirmed cases
|years10=6 June
|color10=tomato
|events10=30000 confirmed cases
|years11=17 June
|color11=tomato
|events11=50000 confirmed cases
|years12=27 June
|color12=black
|events12=1000 confirmed deaths
}}
In May, the Koyambedu Wholesale Market Complex emerged as a new hotspot in Chennai. By 3 May, 113 infections were traced back to the market. The infected were spread across Chennai, Tiruvallur, Kancheepuram, Cuddalore and Chengalpattu districts as there were loaders who travelled out of Chennai even during the lockdown.{{Cite news|last=Lakshmi|first=K.|date=2020-05-02|title=Koyambedu market emerges a hotspot|language=en-IN|work=The Hindu|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/koyambedu-market-emerges-a-hotspot/article31492067.ece|access-date=2020-05-04|issn=0971-751X|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200504105543/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/koyambedu-market-emerges-a-hotspot/article31492067.ece|archive-date=4 May 2020|url-status=live}}{{Cite web|title=Almost 100 COVID-19 cases emerge from Chennai's Koyambedu market|url=https://www.thenewsminute.com/article/almost-100-covid-19-cases-emerge-chennai-s-koyambedu-market-123852|website=thenewsminute.com|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200503141438/https://www.thenewsminute.com/article/almost-100-covid-19-cases-emerge-chennai-s-koyambedu-market-123852|archive-date=3 May 2020|access-date=2020-05-04}} Areas around Koyambedu were sealed and the infected vendors' contacts were being traced.{{Cite web|title=Koyambedu: Pandora's box opened|url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/chennai/2020/may/03/koyambedu-pandoras-box-opened-2138515.html|website=The New Indian Express|access-date=2020-05-04|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200503122355/https://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/chennai/2020/may/03/koyambedu-pandoras-box-opened-2138515.html|archive-date=3 May 2020|url-status=live}} Thiruvanmiyur market in South Chennai was also closed after a vegetable vendor who used to visit Koyambedu market tested positive.{{Cite web|title=Koyambedu weaves web wide across Tamil Nadu as Chennai grapples with COVID-19|url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/chennai/2020/may/04/koyambedu-weaves-web-wide-across-tamil-nadu-as-chennai-grapples-with-covid-19-2138815.html|website=The New Indian Express|access-date=2020-05-04|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200510071143/https://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/chennai/2020/may/04/koyambedu-weaves-web-wide-across-tamil-nadu-as-chennai-grapples-with-covid-19-2138815.html|archive-date=10 May 2020|url-status=live}}
On 6 May, 771 cases were reported in the state, which took the total to 4829. It was the highest single day rise to date.{{Cite web|title=With record 771 new cases in 24 hrs, Tamil Nadu's Covid-19 count rises to 4,829|url=https://www.livemint.com/news/india/with-record-771-new-cases-in-24-hrs-tamil-nadu-s-covid-19-count-rises-to-4-829-11588775367848.html|date=2020-05-06|website=Livemint|language=en|access-date=2020-05-06}}
On 8 May, 600 new cases were reported. The Koyambedu cluster accounted for 1589 cases in the state.{{cite web|url=https://stopcorona.tn.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Media-Bulletin-08.05.2020.pdf|url-status=live|title=Media Bulletin 8 May 2020|website=Health & Family Welfare Department Government of Tamil Nadu|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200508140156/https://stopcorona.tn.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Media-Bulletin-08.05.2020.pdf|archive-date=8 May 2020}}
On 11 May, with 798 new cases, the total surpassed 8000 to become 8002 in the state. Chennai continued to be the worst-hit district. It recorded its highest single-day rise with 538 cases which brought the total to 4371. The state health minister said, "Chennai has cases from the Koyambedu cluster, front line workers cluster, hospital cluster and mediapersons cluster. Royapuram, Thiru Vi Ka Nagar, Kodambakkam and Teynampet are the four highly-affected zones in the city".{{Cite news|date=2020-05-12|title=COVID-19 {{!}} Tamil Nadu sees record spike of 798 cases|language=en-IN|work=The Hindu|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/covid-19-tamil-nadu-sees-record-spike-of-798-cases/article31563187.ece|access-date=2020-05-13|issn=0971-751X|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200513050129/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/covid-19-tamil-nadu-sees-record-spike-of-798-cases/article31563187.ece|archive-date=13 May 2020|url-status=live}}
On 14 May, state reported 447 confirmed cases, of which 24 cases were among interstate and international returnees to the state.{{cite web|url=https://stopcorona.tn.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Media-Bulletin-14-05-20-COVID-19-6-PM.pdf|url-status=live|title=Media Bulletin 14 May 2020|website=Health & Family Welfare Department Government of Tamil Nadu|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200514140922/https://stopcorona.tn.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Media-Bulletin-14-05-20-COVID-19-6-PM.pdf|archive-date=14 May 2020}}
On 15 May, state reported 434 confirmed cases, of which 49 cases were among interstate and international returnees to the state.{{cite web|url=https://stopcorona.tn.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Media-Bulletin-15-05-20-COVID-19-6-PM.pdf|url-status=live|title=Media Bulletin 15 May 2020|website=Health & Family Welfare Department Government of Tamil Nadu|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200515145208/https://stopcorona.tn.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Media-Bulletin-15-05-20-COVID-19-6-PM.pdf|archive-date=15 May 2020}}
On 16 May, state reported 477 confirmed cases, of which 93 cases were among interstate and international returnees to the state. The state reported 939 recoveries, highest reported discharges in a single day.{{cite web|url=https://stopcorona.tn.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Media-Bulletin-16.05.2020.pdf|url-status=live|title=Media Bulletin 16 May 2020|website=Health & Family Welfare Department Government of Tamil Nadu|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200516134246/https://stopcorona.tn.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Media-Bulletin-16.05.2020.pdf|archive-date=16 May 2020}}
On 26 May, the state reported its highest single day rise of 805, bringing the total to 17,082. Chennai accounted for more than 11,000 of the cases. The worst-affected regions of Chennai include Royapuram, Tondiarpet, Kodambakkam, Thiru Vi Ka Nagar, Anna Nagar and Teynampet.{{Cite news|date=2020-05-26|title=In highest single-day spike, T.N. reports 805 fresh cases|language=en-IN|work=The Hindu|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/in-highest-single-day-spike-tn-reports-805-fresh-cases/article31674983.ece|access-date=2020-05-26|issn=0971-751X|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200526105017/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/in-highest-single-day-spike-tn-reports-805-fresh-cases/article31674983.ece|archive-date=26 May 2020|url-status=live}}
On 30 May, 938 new cases were reported, of which 616 were from Chennai. The recovery rate have improved to around 56%, with a total of 12,000 recoveries across the state. The number of active cases stood at 9,021.{{Cite news|date=2020-05-30|title=Coronavirus {{!}} Chennai accounts for a majority of fresh cases in Tamil Nadu|language=en-IN|work=The Hindu|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/coronavirus-chennai-accounts-for-a-majority-of-fresh-cases-in-tamil-nadu/article31712163.ece|access-date=2020-05-31|issn=0971-751X|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200531131854/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/coronavirus-chennai-accounts-for-a-majority-of-fresh-cases-in-tamil-nadu/article31712163.ece|archive-date=31 May 2020|url-status=live}} 31 prisoners in Puzhal prison have tested positive.{{Cite web|title=Tamil Nadu tally crosses 20k with 874 fresh cases|url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/tamil-nadu/2020/may/30/tamil-nadu-tally-crosses-20k-with-874-fresh-cases-2149881.html|website=The New Indian Express|access-date=2020-05-31|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200608012857/https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/tamil-nadu/2020/may/30/tamil-nadu-tally-crosses-20k-with-874-fresh-cases-2149881.html|archive-date=8 June 2020|url-status=live}}
= June =
On 6 June, the state recorded 1458 new cases which took the total number of cases to 30,152. It had recorded over 1000 cases consecutively in last seven days. Chennai with 20,993 total cases had about 70% of state's cases. 16,395 patients have recovered across the state.{{Cite web|title=Tamil Nadu Crosses 30,000-Mark With 1,458 New Coronavirus Cases|url=https://www.ndtv.com/tamil-nadu-news/tamil-nadu-crosses-30-000-mark-with-1-458-new-coronavirus-cases-2242000|access-date=2020-06-07|website=NDTV.com|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200607082942/https://www.ndtv.com/tamil-nadu-news/tamil-nadu-crosses-30-000-mark-with-1-458-new-coronavirus-cases-2242000|archive-date=7 June 2020|url-status=live}}
On 9 June, the state government announced that it has cancelled the Class 10th board examinations which were scheduled to be held from June 15 and all students will be declared as passed.{{Cite news|author=The Hindu Net Desk|date=2020-06-09|title=Coronavirus India lockdown Day 77 updates {{!}} TN cancels Class 10 board exams|language=en-IN|work=The Hindu|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/india-coronavirus-lockdown-june-9-2020-live-updates/article31784353.ece|issn=0971-751X|access-date=9 June 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200609052418/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/india-coronavirus-lockdown-june-9-2020-live-updates/article31784353.ece|archive-date=9 June 2020|url-status=live}}
On 10 June, MLA J. Anbazhagan from Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam party died due to COVID-19 in Chennai.{{Cite web|last1=Narayan|first1=Pushpa|last2=Govardan|first2=D.|last3=Sivakumar|first3=B.|date=2020-06-10|title=J Anbazhagan, DMK MLA, dies of Covid-19 in Chennai|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/j-anbazhagan-dmk-mla-dies-of-covid-19-in-chennai/articleshow/76294406.cms|access-date=2020-06-10|website=The Times of India|language=en|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200610235802/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/j-anbazhagan-dmk-mla-dies-of-covid-19-in-chennai/articleshow/76294406.cms|archive-date=10 June 2020|url-status=live}}
On 15 June, the state crossed 46,000 cases mark to reach 46,504 after recording 1843 new cases.{{Cite web|date=2020-06-15|title=Tamil Nadu's Covid-19 count breaches 46,000-mark with 1,843 fresh cases|url=https://www.livemint.com/news/india/tamil-nadu-s-covid-19-count-breaches-46-000-mark-with-1-843-fresh-cases-11592229522913.html|access-date=2020-06-15|website=Livemint|language=en|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200615151414/https://www.livemint.com/news/india/tamil-nadu-s-covid-19-count-breaches-46-000-mark-with-1-843-fresh-cases-11592229522913.html|archive-date=15 June 2020|url-status=live}} Owing to the rise, the state government announced 12-day lockdown in four districts including Chennai, between 19 and 30 June 2020.{{Cite web|last=Narayan|first=Pushpa|title=Coronavirus in Tamil Nadu: Expert medical panel recommends strict quarantine in containment zones|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/coronavirus-in-tamil-nadu-expert-medical-panel-recommends-strict-quarantine-in-containment-zones/articleshow/76384582.cms|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200615231906/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/coronavirus-in-tamil-nadu-expert-medical-panel-recommends-strict-quarantine-in-containment-zones/articleshow/76384582.cms|archive-date=15 June 2020|access-date=2020-06-15|website=The Times of India|language=en}}{{Cite web|date=2020-06-15|title=Amid rising cases, Tamil Nadu govt announces 12-day strict lockdown in Chennai, adjoining areas|url=https://www.dnaindia.com/india/report-amid-rising-cases-tamil-nadu-govt-announces-12-day-strict-lockdown-in-chennai-adjoining-areas-2828099|access-date=2020-06-15|website=DNA India|language=en|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200615153454/https://www.dnaindia.com/india/report-amid-rising-cases-tamil-nadu-govt-announces-12-day-strict-lockdown-in-chennai-adjoining-areas-2828099|archive-date=15 June 2020|url-status=live}}
On 17 June, the state witnessed over 2000 new cases for the first time after recording 2174 cases. It took the total number of cases over 50,000 cases to 50,193. The state had also tested over 25,000 samples in a day, its highest ever.{{Cite web|title=Tamil Nadu reports new high of 2,174 coronavirus positive cases in a day|url=https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/news/national/tamil-nadu-reports-new-high-of-2174-coronavirus-positive-cases-in-a-day/article31853128.ece|access-date=2020-06-17|website=@businessline|language=en|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200617151350/https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/news/national/tamil-nadu-reports-new-high-of-2174-coronavirus-positive-cases-in-a-day/article31853128.ece|archive-date=17 June 2020|url-status=live}} The private secretary of Chief Minister's Office, Damodharan died due to COVID-19.{{Cite web|last=Mariappan|first=Julie|title=Coronavirus in Tami Nadu: CMO private secretary Damodharan dies of Covid-19|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/coronavirus-in-tami-nadu-cmo-private-secretary-damodharan-dies-of-covid-19/articleshow/76421200.cms|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200618015000/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/coronavirus-in-tami-nadu-cmo-private-secretary-damodharan-dies-of-covid-19/articleshow/76421200.cms|archive-date=18 June 2020|access-date=2020-06-17|website=The Times of India|language=en}} Balamurali, a police inspector from Chennai died due to COVID-19 which was the state's first police personnel death.{{Cite web|title=Tamil Nadu Loses Its First Police Personnel To Coronavirus In Chennai|url=https://www.ndtv.com/tamil-nadu-news/tamil-nadu-loses-its-first-police-officer-to-coronavirus-disease-in-chennai-2248122|access-date=2020-06-18|website=NDTV.com|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200618114422/https://www.ndtv.com/tamil-nadu-news/tamil-nadu-loses-its-first-police-officer-to-coronavirus-disease-in-chennai-2248122|archive-date=18 June 2020|url-status=live}}
In mid-June, non-hotspot districts such as Madurai, Vellore, Cuddalore, Ranipet and Ramanathapuram saw rise in number of new cases. Officials thought that it might be due to the 'unlocking' of the state, mass influx of from Chennai and inter-district movement.{{Cite web|title=Non-hotspot districts in Tamil Nadu see rise in COVID-19 cases|url=https://www.thenewsminute.com/article/non-hotspot-districts-tamil-nadu-see-rise-covid-19-cases-127186|access-date=2020-06-25|website=thenewsminute.com}} Starting from 24 June, Madurai and Theni districts entered stricter lockdowns following the rise.{{Cite web|date=24 June 2020|title=7-day intense lockdown starts today in Madurai|url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/tamil-nadu/2020/jun/24/7-day-intense-lockdown-starts-today-in-madurai-2160595.html|access-date=25 June 2020|website=The New Indian Express}}{{Cite news|date=24 June 2020|title=COVID-19 lockdown restrictions intensified in TN's Theni from June 24, here are the guidelines|work=The New Indian Express|url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/tamil-nadu/2020/jun/24/covid-19-lockdown-restrictions-intensified-in-tns-theni-from-june-24-here-are-the-guidelines-2160507.html|access-date=25 June 2020}} The state also re-imposed restrictions on inter-district travel until June 30.{{Cite web|date=2020-06-24|title=Tamil Nadu re-intensifies lockdown measures, imposes curbs on inter-district travel|url=https://www.dnaindia.com/india/report-tamil-nadu-re-intensifies-lockdown-measures-imposes-curbs-on-inter-district-travel-2829460|access-date=2020-06-25|website=DNA India|language=en}}
= July =
The total case count crossed 2 lakh mark in the state, with 2,06,737 cases on 25 July. The recovery rate was 73% while the case fatality rate was 1.65%, comparatively lower than other Indian states as of 25 July.{{Cite news|first=Pon|last=Vasanth|date=2020-07-26|title=Coronavirus {{!}} Tamil Nadu's case count crosses two-lakh mark|language=en-IN|work=The Hindu|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/coronavirus-tamil-nadus-case-count-crosses-two-lakh-mark/article32193891.ece|access-date=2020-08-01|issn=0971-751X}}
The case growth rate in Chennai saw a dip in July. The number of daily new cases dropped from 2400 in the first week of July to 1013 on 31 July. Recovery rate improved from 60% to 85%. The city's positivity rate stood around 9% at the end of July.{{Cite news|date=31 July 2020|title=COVID-19: Ray of hope as daily cases in Chennai dip closer to three-digit mark|work=The New Indian Express|url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/chennai/2020/jul/31/covid-19-ray-of-hope-as-daily-cases-in-chennai-dip-closer-to-three-digit-mark-2177383.html}}
The disease spread intensified in other districts of the states like Madurai, where cases crossed 11,000 on 31 July.{{Cite news|date=2020-08-01|title=Madurai's tally crosses 11,000 mark|language=en-IN|work=The Hindu|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Madurai/madurais-tally-crosses-11000-mark/article32244890.ece|access-date=2020-08-01|issn=0971-751X}} The districts Chennai, Kancheepuram, Chengalpattu, Tiruvallur and Madurai accounted for about 63.5% of the state's total cases.{{Cite web|date=2020-07-27|title=COVID-19: Tamil Nadu's Numbers Tell a Story of Their Own|url=https://www.newsclick.in/covid-19-tamil-nadus-numbers-tell-story-their-own|access-date=2020-08-01|website=NewsClick|language=en}}
= August =
The total case count crossed 2.5 lakh mark in the state, with 2,51,738 cases on 1 August.{{Cite web|date=2020-08-01|title=Tamil Nadu records 5,879 new COVID-19 cases and 99 fatalities|url=https://www.kovaidaily.com/tamil-nadu-records-5879-new-covid-19-cases-and-99-fatalities-1629/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220428135518/https://www.kovaidaily.com/tamil-nadu-records-5879-new-covid-19-cases-and-99-fatalities-1629/|url-status=usurped|archive-date=28 April 2022|access-date=2020-08-04|website=Kovai Daily|language=en-US}} The number of confirmed cases in Chennai crossed 1 lakh mark on 2 August.{{Cite web|date=2020-08-02|title=5,875 fresh COVID-19 cases, 98 deaths reported in Tamil Nadu|url=https://www.kovaidaily.com/5875-fresh-covid-19-cases-98-deaths-reported-in-tamil-nadu-1670/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220428135536/https://www.kovaidaily.com/5875-fresh-covid-19-cases-98-deaths-reported-in-tamil-nadu-1670/|url-status=usurped|archive-date=28 April 2022|access-date=2020-08-04|website=Kovai Daily|language=en-US}} On August 3, Tamil Nadu's single day COVID-19 death toll crossed the 100 mark, after registering 109 fatalities.{{Cite web|date=2020-08-03|title=Tamil Nadu's single-day COVID death toll crosses 100-mark|url=https://www.kovaidaily.com/tamil-nadus-single-day-covid-death-toll-crosses-100-mark-1727/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220428135555/https://www.kovaidaily.com/tamil-nadus-single-day-covid-death-toll-crosses-100-mark-1727/|url-status=usurped|archive-date=28 April 2022|access-date=2020-08-04|website=Kovai Daily|language=en-US}}
Cases
The data below are based on Health and Family Welfare Department of Tamil Nadu daily reports.
= thanjavurBy district =
= By cluster =
== Delhi Tablighi Jamaat cluster ==
{{See also|2020 Tablighi Jamaat coronavirus hotspot in Delhi}}
The Delhi Tablighi Jamaat cluster accounts for 1,113 cases of all reported according to the Department of Health. The first case was reported on 31 March 2020. The highest single day rise due to the cluster was on 1 April when 110 cases linked to it were reported.
== Koyambedu cluster ==
As of 5 May 2020, the cluster accounts for over 600 cases in the state.{{Cite news|last1=Lakshmi|first1=K.|last2=M|first2=Serena Josephine|date=2020-05-04|title=Koyambedu accounts for over 600 cases in T.N.|language=en-IN|work=The Hindu|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/chennai/koyambedu-accounts-for-over-600-cases-in-tn/article31505508.ece|access-date=2020-05-05|issn=0971-751X|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200505201444/https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/chennai/koyambedu-accounts-for-over-600-cases-in-tn/article31505508.ece|archive-date=5 May 2020|url-status=live}}{{cite web|title=Media Bulletin 4 May 2020|url=https://stopcorona.tn.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Media-Bulletin-04.05.2020-1.pdf|website=Health & Family Welfare Department Government of Tamil Nadu|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200504133212/https://stopcorona.tn.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Media-Bulletin-04.05.2020-1.pdf|archive-date=4 May 2020}}
As of 9 May, the cluster accounts for 1867 cases in the state.{{cite web|url=https://stopcorona.tn.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Media-Bulletin-09.05.2020.pdf|url-status=live|title=Media Bulletin 9 May 2020|website=Health & Family Welfare Department Government of Tamil Nadu|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200509145006/https://stopcorona.tn.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Media-Bulletin-09.05.2020.pdf|archive-date=9 May 2020}}
= By demographic =
Most infected are between the age range of 13-60 and are predominantly male.{{Cite web|title=Media Bulletin 28.07.2020|url=https://stopcorona.tn.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Media-Bulletin-28-07-20-COVID-19-6-PM.pdf|website=stopcorona.tn.gov.in|access-date=29 July 2020}}{{Cite web|title=Media Bulletin 20.06.2020|url=https://stopcorona.tn.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Media-Bulletin-28-07-20-COVID-19-6-PM.pdf|website=stopcorona.tn.gov.in|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200620134707/https://stopcorona.tn.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Media-Bulletin-20-06-20-COVID-19-6-PM.pdf|archive-date=20 June 2020|access-date=20 June 2020}}
Testing
{{see also|COVID-19 testing}}
File:Tamil Nadu COVID-19 tested per million - June 2020.png)]]
As per the protocol set by the ICMR and the state, patients with Severe Acute Respiratory Illness (SARI) are tested for COVID-19.{{Cite web|title=LabTestingAdvisory|url=https://www.mohfw.gov.in/pdf/LabTestingAdvisory.pdf|access-date=21 June 2020|website=mohfw.gov.in}}{{Cite web|title=TNSOP-2_B_version_1.2_Laboratory_diagnosis|url=https://stopcorona.tn.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/files/TNSOP-2_B_version_1.2_Laboratory_diagnosis.pdf|access-date=21 June 2020|website=stopcorona.tn.gov.in}} Their contacts are traced and quarantined; tested if they develop symptoms. If they are a high-risk contact, they are tested even if they are asymptomatic. International travel passengers and passengers from other states are tested and quarantined until their results come. If found positive, they are moved to hospitals.{{Cite web|title=Keralites testing positive on arrival in TN a disturbing pointer for state|url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/kerala/2020/jun/19/keralites-testing-positive-on-arrival-in-tn-a-disturbing-pointer-for-state-2158425.html|access-date=2020-06-21|website=The New Indian Express}} Health care workers are tested if they show symptoms.
During the first half of March, the state faced criticism for the low number of tests. By 16 March, it had only tested 90 samples while neighbouring Kerala and Karnataka had tested more than 1500 and 750 samples.{{cite web|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/in-tamil-nadu-patients-doctors-call-for-increased-tests-on-coronavirus/articleshow/74647117.cms|title=Coronavirus Tamil Nadu Updates: In Tamil Nadu, patients & doctors call for increased tests on coronavirus|date=16 March 2020|website=The Times of India|language=en|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200321071302/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/in-tamil-nadu-patients-doctors-call-for-increased-tests-on-coronavirus/articleshow/74647117.cms|archive-date=21 March 2020|access-date=2020-03-31|agency=TNN}} The director of Public Health defended the state's low number of tests by saying that Kerala saw more travel from coronavirus-affected countries which is why it had detected more cases.{{cite web|title=Why Kerala has done more coronavirus tests than Tamil Nadu – and why this must change|url=https://scroll.in/pulse/956278/why-kerala-has-done-more-coronavirus-tests-than-tamil-nadu-and-why-this-must-change|last=Yamunan|first=Sruthisagar|website=Scroll.in|language=en-US|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200328121533/https://scroll.in/pulse/956278/why-kerala-has-done-more-coronavirus-tests-than-tamil-nadu-and-why-this-must-change|archive-date=28 March 2020|access-date=2020-03-31}} The Public Health department had also said that the state follows test protocols established by the Union Health Ministry. Following the Delhi Nizamuddin event, the families of all identified participants were tested regardless of whether they showed symptoms or not. By 16 March, following ICMR's guidelines to test for community transmission, the state had tested 22 random samples of people with influenza and SARI for coronavirus. All tested negative. By 10 April, of 577 SARI patients tested, five were positive.{{cite journal|vauthors=Gupta N, Praharaj I, Bhatnagar T, Vivian Thangaraj JW, Giri S, Chauhan H, Kulkarni S, Murhekar M, Singh S, Gangakhedkar RR, Bhargava B|date=2020|title=Severe acute respiratory illness surveillance for coronavirus disease 2019, India, 2020|url=http://www.ijmr.org.in/article.asp?issn=0971-5916;year=2020;volume=151;issue=2;spage=236;epage=240;aulast=Gupta|journal=Indian J Med Res
|volume=151|issue=2–3|pages=236–240|doi=10.4103/ijmr.IJMR_1035_20|pmc=7357403|pmid=32362647|access-date=3 September 2020 |doi-access=free }}{{cite web|title=Coronavirus: Second ICMR report on random sampling test results shows possible community transmission|url=https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/coronavirus-india-second-icmr-report-random-sampling-test-results-shows-possible-community-transmission-1665290-2020-04-10|last=Sharma|first=Milan|date=April 10, 2020|website=India Today|language=en|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200412160840/https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/coronavirus-india-second-icmr-report-random-sampling-test-results-shows-possible-community-transmission-1665290-2020-04-10|archive-date=12 April 2020|access-date=2020-04-16}} In June, 199 Influenza Like Illness (ILI) cases were identified among the 3048 people who attended fever camps set up in Chennai's worst-affected Royapuram zone.{{Cite web|title=In Chennai's COVID-19 battle, 37 containment zones active for over a month take centre stage|url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/chennai/2020/jun/15/in-chennais-covid-19-battle-37-containment-zones-active-for-over-a-month-take-centre-stage-2156933.html|access-date=2020-06-18|website=The New Indian Express|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200618131959/https://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/chennai/2020/jun/15/in-chennais-covid-19-battle-37-containment-zones-active-for-over-a-month-take-centre-stage-2156933.html|archive-date=18 June 2020|url-status=live}}
In early April, Tamil Nadu had the highest the percentage of positive samples among total samples tested in the country at 13%. It was attributed to detection of cases related to the Tablighi Jamaat gathering in Delhi.{{cite web|url=https://www.indiaspend.com/13-of-samples-in-tamil-nadu-are-testing-positive-4-in-india/|title=13% of samples in Tamil Nadu are testing positive, 4% in India|last=Raman|first=Shreya|date=2020-04-08|website=indiaspend.com|language=en-US|access-date=2020-04-13|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200413054301/https://www.indiaspend.com/13-of-samples-in-tamil-nadu-are-testing-positive-4-in-india/|archive-date=13 April 2020|url-status=live}} On 12 April, the state health officials changed the testing strategy to "aggressive testing", also including asymptomatic individuals for tests.{{cite web|url=https://www.dtnext.in/News/TamilNadu/2020/04/12183523/1224770/Tamil-Nadu-crosses-1000mark-in-coronavirus-cases.vpf|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200717060724/https://www.dtnext.in/News/TamilNadu/2020/04/12183523/1224770/Tamil-Nadu-crosses-1000mark-in-coronavirus-cases.vpf|url-status=dead|archive-date=17 July 2020|title=Tamil Nadu COVID-19 cases cross 1000, eight doctors contract virus|date=2020-04-12|website=dtNext.in|language=en|access-date=2020-04-15}} The Health Secretary also said that the state will employ the 24,000 real time Reverse-Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) test kits that it has in possession for more stringent testing.{{cite web|url=https://www.deccanherald.com/national/coronavirus-with-over-1000-cases-tn-changes-testing-strategy-825043.html|title=Coronavirus: With over 1,000 cases, TN changes testing strategy|date=2020-04-13|website=Deccan Herald|language=en|access-date=2020-04-15}} The move was welcomed health professionals. On 14 April, the Chennai Corporation revealed that it plans to collect 40,000 swab samples, including 10,000 from the containment zones. It had set up 35 walk-in kiosks for the purpose.{{cite web |url=https://www.thenewsminute.com/article/trade-centre-chennai-converted-550-bed-covid-19-quarantine-ward-122629 |title=Trade centre in Chennai converted into a 550-bed COVID-19 quarantine ward |website=thenewsminute.com |date=15 April 2020 |access-date=2020-04-18 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200419121604/https://www.thenewsminute.com/article/trade-centre-chennai-converted-550-bed-covid-19-quarantine-ward-122629 |archive-date=19 April 2020 |url-status=live }}
By 19 April, the state's number of tests per 10,000 people had increased from 0.4 on 1 April to 4.1, which was almost a seven-fold increase. In mid-May, the state was testing at a rate of 10,000 to 14,000 samples per day, on an average.{{Cite news|date=2020-05-18|title=Test kits stock enough for 20 days|language=en-IN|work=The Hindu|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/test-kits-stock-enough-for-20-days/article31617865.ece|access-date=2020-06-07|issn=0971-751X|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200607082943/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/test-kits-stock-enough-for-20-days/article31617865.ece|archive-date=7 June 2020|url-status=live}} The state procured 100,000 RT-PCR test kits from a South Korean firm, as part of a 10 lakh kit order.{{Cite news|date=2020-05-08|title=T.N. to order 10 lakh more RT-PCR testing kits|language=en-IN|work=The Hindu|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/tn-to-order-10-lakh-more-rt-pcr-testing-kits/article31538751.ece|access-date=2020-06-07|issn=0971-751X|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200607082945/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/tn-to-order-10-lakh-more-rt-pcr-testing-kits/article31538751.ece|archive-date=7 June 2020|url-status=live}} On 2 June, the chief minister Edappadi Palaniswami said that the state had received 11.51 lakh RT-PCR kits so far (of which 5.03 lakh were expended).{{Cite news|date=2020-06-02|title=No misinformation on test kits, adequate stock available: CM|language=en-IN|work=The Hindu|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/no-misinformation-on-test-kits-adequate-stock-available-cm/article31734361.ece|access-date=2020-06-07|issn=0971-751X|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200607082947/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/no-misinformation-on-test-kits-adequate-stock-available-cm/article31734361.ece|archive-date=7 June 2020|url-status=live}}
On 17 June, daily testing crossed 25,000 in the state for the first time.{{Cite web|date=2020-06-17|title=India Coronavirus Updates, 17 June: Tamil Nadu tests over 25,000 samples in a day; Goa Congress demands sealing of state borders|url=https://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-coronavirus-updates-17-june-6462942/|access-date=2020-06-17|website=The Indian Express|language=en|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200617154923/https://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-coronavirus-updates-17-june-6462942/|archive-date=17 June 2020|url-status=live}} Tamil Nadu also became the first state in the country to cross the 20,000 test per day mark.{{Cite news|date=18 June 2020|title=Tamil Nadu becomes first state to cross 20,000 COVID-19 tests, here's how it compares to others|work=CNBC|url=https://www.cnbctv18.com/healthcare/tamil-nadu-becomes-first-state-to-cross-20000-covid-19-tests-heres-how-it-compares-to-others-6160271.htm|access-date=20 June 2020}} Total tests to date was 773,707.{{Cite web|title=Media Bulletin 17.06.2020|url=https://stopcorona.tn.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/Media-Bulletin-17.06.2020-20-Pages-English-429-KB.pdf|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200617161738/https://stopcorona.tn.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/Media-Bulletin-17.06.2020-20-Pages-English-429-KB.pdf|archive-date=17 June 2020|access-date=17 June 2020|website=stopcorona.tn.gov.in}} Most of tests were being done in Chennai (23% of all samples) and neighboring districts. As of 8 June, the district with highest positivity rate was Chennai (18.13%), followed by Chengalpattu (13.28%), Tiruvallur (11.96) and Ariyalur (9.62%).{{Cite web|last=Kannan|first=Saikiran|title=Tamil Nadu's uneven testing a challenge in Covid diagnosis|url=https://www.indiatoday.in/news-analysis/story/tamil-nadu-s-uneven-testing-a-challenge-in-covid-diagnosis-1686925-2020-06-08|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200609214220/https://www.indiatoday.in/news-analysis/story/tamil-nadu-s-uneven-testing-a-challenge-in-covid-diagnosis-1686925-2020-06-08|archive-date=9 June 2020|access-date=2020-06-17|website=India Today|language=en}}
Amid strict 14-day lockdown from 19 to 30 June in Chennai and three other districts, the government looked to increase testing and tracing of the disease in a bid to control its spread.{{Cite web|date=2020-06-20|title=Lockdown on for day two, Tamil Nadu CM says it is a 'speed breaker'|url=https://www.livemint.com/news/india/lockdown-on-for-day-two-tamil-nadu-cm-says-it-is-a-speed-breaker-11592658182804.html|access-date=2020-06-21|website=Livemint|language=en}} The chief minister said that the curbs were being used to further augment detection of COVID-19 cases in Chennai by conducting more door-to-door surveys and fever camps. On the second day of the lockdown, 33,231 samples were tested which was the state's highest in a single day.{{Cite web|date=2020-06-20|title=Amid strict lockdown, Tamil Nadu tests 33,231 samples, its highest in a single day|url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/amid-strict-lockdown-tamil-nadu-tests-33-231-samples-its-highest-in-a-single-day/story-aHOaS8dMyr9TNQPliyCw6J.html|access-date=2020-06-21|website=Hindustan Times|language=en}}
= Rapid test kits =
On 6 April after ICMR's approval, the state government placed an independent order to purchase around one lakh serology-based rapid test kits from China, that can return quick results and are expected to be used for mass testing in smaller towns and rural areas.{{cite web|url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/5-lessons-from-tamil-nadu-s-book-how-the-state-is-fighting-covid-19/story-Sl4kD5HZksOIuOTRDm2OeM.html|title=5 lessons from Tamil Nadu's book: How the state is fighting Covid-19|date=2020-04-07|website=Hindustan Times|language=en|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200407165126/https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/5-lessons-from-tamil-nadu-s-book-how-the-state-is-fighting-covid-19/story-Sl4kD5HZksOIuOTRDm2OeM.html|archive-date=7 April 2020|access-date=2020-04-09}} They were expected to be delivered by 9 April.{{cite web|url=https://www.dtnext.in/News/TamilNadu/2020/04/06155451/1223661/1-lakh-rapid-test-kits-to-speed-up-COVID19-screening-.vpf|title=Tamil Nadu to deploy 1 lakh rapid test kits to speed up COVID-19 screening|date=2020-04-06|website=dtNext.in|language=en|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200407044426/https://www.dtnext.in/News/TamilNadu/2020/04/06155451/1223661/1-lakh-rapid-test-kits-to-speed-up-COVID19-screening-.vpf|archive-date=7 April 2020|access-date=2020-04-07}} On 11 April, the Chief Secretary K Shanmugam said that the consignment meant for India was reportedly diverted to the United States, causing delay.{{cite web|url=https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/rapid-testing-not-arrived-yet-consignment-diverted-us-tamil-nadu-chief-secy-1665964-2020-04-11|title=Rapid testing haven't arrived yet, consignment diverted to US: Tamil Nadu chief secy|date=April 11, 2020|first=Akshaya |last=Nath|website=India Today|language=en|access-date=2020-04-12|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200412071909/https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/rapid-testing-not-arrived-yet-consignment-diverted-us-tamil-nadu-chief-secy-1665964-2020-04-11|archive-date=12 April 2020|url-status=live}} The delay affected the testing rate of the state. The director of public health K Kolandaswamy said "It is admittedly one of our biggest weakness, but we decided there is no point in waiting for the kits. We have to use every minute in this period resourcefully." Instead of waiting, the health department has decided to use the existing RT-PCR kits for mass screening.{{cite news|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/why-tamil-nadu-has-to-do-more-with-less/articleshow/75114082.cms|title=Tamil Nadu Lockdown: Why Tamil Nadu has to do more with less|website=The Times of India|date=13 April 2020 |language=en|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200414131951/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/why-tamil-nadu-has-to-do-more-with-less/articleshow/75114082.cms|archive-date=14 April 2020|access-date=2020-04-13}}
After several delays, 24,000 rapid test kits reached Chennai on 17 April.{{cite news|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/coronavirus-tamil-nadu-gets-24000-rapid-testing-kits-from-china/articleshow/75194586.cms|title=Tamil Nadu Corona News: Tamil Nadu gets 24,000 rapid testing kits from China|last=Narayan|first=Pushpa|website=The Times of India|date=17 April 2020 |language=en|access-date=2020-04-17}} The state aims to use it for initial testing of close contacts of people who have tested positive and in areas around the containment zones. If tested positive, their samples are sent for a confirmatory PCR test. The state had also ordered an additional 5 lakh rapid test kits and 1 lakh RT-PCR kits.{{cite web|url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/with-400-000-kits-tn-to-ramp-up-testing/story-GyQ1gZbOr9oVumdeagzK3M.html|title=Coronavirus update: With 400,000 kits, Tamil Nadu to ramp up Covid-19 testing|date=2020-04-11|website=Hindustan Times|language=en|access-date=2020-04-13|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200412233926/https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/with-400-000-kits-tn-to-ramp-up-testing/story-GyQ1gZbOr9oVumdeagzK3M.html|archive-date=12 April 2020|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=https://www.deccanchronicle.com/nation/current-affairs/170420/dip-in-new-cases-makes-tamil-nadu-chief-minister-highly-optimistic.html|title=Dip in new cases makes Tamil Nadu chief minister highly optimistic|last=Venkatesh|first=D. Sekar & M. R.|date=2020-04-17|website=Deccan Chronicle|language=en|access-date=2020-04-18|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200501204618/https://www.deccanchronicle.com/nation/current-affairs/170420/dip-in-new-cases-makes-tamil-nadu-chief-minister-highly-optimistic.html|archive-date=1 May 2020|url-status=live}} In late-April, the state returned the 24,000 rapid test kits that it had purchased from the Chinese firm Guangzhou Wondfo after ICMR's advise.{{Cite news|date=2020-04-27|title=Tamil Nadu to return 24,000 rapid test kits|language=en-IN|work=The Hindu|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/tamil-nadu-to-return-24000-rapid-test-kits/article31448866.ece|access-date=2020-06-07|issn=0971-751X|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200607082943/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/tamil-nadu-to-return-24000-rapid-test-kits/article31448866.ece|archive-date=7 June 2020|url-status=live}}
Chief Minister E Palaniswami had urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to provide COVID-19 rapid test kits and {{INRConvert|1000|c}} immediately to procure medical supplies in a video-conference chaired by Modi and attended by the Chief Ministers of other states on 11 April.{{Cite news|last=Ramakrishnan|first=T.|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/tamil-nadu-chief-minister-urges-prime-minister-modi-to-provide-covid-19-rapid-test-kits-1000-crore-immediately/article31317569.ece|title=Tamil Nadu Chief Minister urges Prime Minister Modi to provide COVID-19 rapid test kits, ₹1,000 crore immediately|date=2020-04-11|work=The Hindu|access-date=2020-04-12|language=en-IN|issn=0971-751X|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200412074759/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/tamil-nadu-chief-minister-urges-prime-minister-modi-to-provide-covid-19-rapid-test-kits-1000-crore-immediately/article31317569.ece|archive-date=12 April 2020|url-status=live}} By June, the central government had provided 50,000 testing kits the state.
= Testing facilities =
Initially, the state only had four government labs for conducting tests for the coronavirus. As of 20 June 2020, the state had 85 laboratories (45 government and 40 private) approved by ICMR for testing.{{Cite web|title=Media-Bulletin-20.06.2020|url=https://stopcorona.tn.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Media-Bulletin-20-06-20-COVID-19-6-PM.pdf|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200620134707/https://stopcorona.tn.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Media-Bulletin-20-06-20-COVID-19-6-PM.pdf|archive-date=20 June 2020|access-date=20 June 2020|website=stopcorona.tn.gov.in}} According to reports, private labs has fixed a rate of Rs 4,500 for testing a COVID-19 sample. The state government had announced that it will bear all the expenses.{{cite web|url=https://www.dtnext.in/News/TamilNadu/2020/04/12183523/1224770/Tamil-Nadu-crosses-1000mark-in-coronavirus-cases.vpf|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200717060724/https://www.dtnext.in/News/TamilNadu/2020/04/12183523/1224770/Tamil-Nadu-crosses-1000mark-in-coronavirus-cases.vpf|url-status=dead|archive-date=17 July 2020|title=Tamil Nadu COVID-19 cases cross 1000, eight doctors contract virus|date=2020-04-12|website=dtNext.in|language=en|access-date=2020-04-15}}
Mathematical models
In late March 2020, two researchers from the University of Cambridge came up with a new mathematical model that predicts a flat 49-day countrywide lockdown or sustained lockdown with periodic relaxation extending over two months may be necessary to prevent COVID-19 resurgence in India.{{cite web|url=https://www.livemint.com/news/india/49-day-lockdown-necessary-to-stop-coronavirus-resurgence-in-india-study-11585473979844.html|title=49-day lockdown necessary to stop coronavirus resurgence in India: Study|date=29 March 2020|publisher=Livemint|access-date=14 April 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200412051000/https://www.livemint.com/news/india/49-day-lockdown-necessary-to-stop-coronavirus-resurgence-in-india-study-11585473979844.html|archive-date=12 April 2020|url-status=live}}
In June 2020, epidemiologists at Tamil Nadu Dr. M.G.R. Medical University projected that Chennai may witness 150,000 infections and up to 1,600 deaths by the second week of July at the current rate of growth. The team also predicted that the state may record 130,000 infections and 769 deaths by 30 June 2020.{{Cite web|date=2020-06-05|title=Tamil Nadu varsity predicts 1.5 lakh Covid cases in Chennai by mid-July|url=https://indianexpress.com/article/india/tn-varsity-predicts-1-5-lakh-covid-cases-in-chennai-by-mid-july-6443177/|access-date=2020-06-07|website=The Indian Express|language=en|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200607051139/https://indianexpress.com/article/india/tn-varsity-predicts-1-5-lakh-covid-cases-in-chennai-by-mid-july-6443177/|archive-date=7 June 2020|url-status=live}} Epidemiologists have also advised the government that herd immunity in Tamil Nadu is possible only if 55–60% of the population contracts a mild infection. An official said, "It means there will be many more cases and the idea is to keep the spread slow so that it can happen over many months to ensure that our health infrastructure is sufficient."{{Cite news|last=Jesudasan|first=Dennis S.|date=2020-06-15|title=T.N. govt. begins identifying places to set up COVID-19 care centres|language=en-IN|work=The Hindu|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/tn-govt-begins-identifying-places-to-set-up-covid-19-care-centres/article31829206.ece|access-date=2020-06-18|issn=0971-751X|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200618200325/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/tn-govt-begins-identifying-places-to-set-up-covid-19-care-centres/article31829206.ece|archive-date=18 June 2020|url-status=live}}
Treatment
{{See also|Management of COVID-19}}
= Diagnosis =
File:Protocol for COVID 19 Screening and Follow up - Tamil Nadu.png
COVID-19 patients in the state are treated in four categories of facilities — severe cases require hospitalisation, moderate cases are admitted to 'health centres' and mild cases are accommodated at 'care centres'. The remaining asymptomatic cases are required to remain in home quarantine. According to a health official, about ten percent of the total active patients in the state need hospitalisation, about 20% need health centres, another 50% need care centres and the rest can go under home quarantine. He also added, "On an average, a patient with severe symptoms requires a bed for about 10 days. This means that a bed will be occupied for 10 days."
The Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) by Health & Family Welfare Department guides the medical staff in the clinical assessment of suspected COVID-19 patients. Any patient arriving with a fever, cough and difficulty in breathing is screened to determine if they are a suspect for COVID-19.
- A patient with acute respiratory illness (fever and at least one sign/symptom of respiratory disease), and a history of travel to or residence in a country/area or territory reporting local transmission of COVID-19 disease during the 14 days prior to symptom onset;
- A patient/Health care worker with any acute respiratory illness and having been in contact with a confirmed COVID-19 case in the last 14 days prior to onset of symptoms;
- A patient with severe acute respiratory infection and requiring hospitalization;
- A case for with inconclusive COVID-19 test result.
Once a patient is suspected of COVID-19, their pulse, respiratory rate, blood pressure and oxygen saturation are checked and their samples are collected for testing.{{Cite web|title=TNSOP-6-1-version-1.3|url=https://stopcorona.tn.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/TNSOP-6-1-version-1.3.pdf|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200516091400/https://stopcorona.tn.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/TNSOP-6-1-version-1.3.pdf|archive-date=16 May 2020|access-date=19 June 2020|website=stopcorona.tn.gov.in}} The guideline defines mild and moderate-severe as follows:
class="wikitable"
|+ Classification of patients prior to testing !Mild !Moderate to Severe{{Refn|If patient has one of the following|group=lower-alpha}} |
* Pulse below 100 per minute
|
|
colspan="2" |{{Notelist|lower-alpha}} |
Mild cases are admitted to standard isolation while moderate to severe are taken to critical care unit (CCU) regardless of the test result. If the results arrive positive, they are treated as per the SOP.
The contacts of the confirmed COVID-19 patients are identified and isolated.{{Cite web|title=TNSOP_3_Contact_follow_up|url=https://stopcorona.tn.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/files/TNSOP_3_Contact_follow_up.pdf|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200516091358/https://stopcorona.tn.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/files/TNSOP_3_Contact_follow_up.pdf|archive-date=16 May 2020|access-date=19 June 2020|website=stopcorona.tn.gov.in}}
== Definition of contacts ==
A contact is someone who had either provided direct care without proper personal protective equipment (PPE) for a COVID-19 patient; stayed in the same close environment of a COVID-19 patient (including workplace, classroom, household, gatherings) or travelled in close proximity (1 m) with a symptomatic person who later tested positive for COVID-19. The contacts are classified into two based on the following:
class="wikitable"
!Low risk contact !High risk contact |
* Shared the same space such as same class for school/worked in the same room/similar without having a high-risk exposure to a confirmed or suspect case of COVID-19;
|
|
High risk-contacts are tested within 5–14 days of coming into contact. Others undergo testing if they develop symptoms. If they don't develop symptoms, they are cleared to leave isolation after 28 days.
= Drugs =
Drugs are given only after confirmation of the lab tests. The drugs used in the treatment of mild COVID-19 cases are Paracetamol, Oseltamavir 150 mg and antibiotics if needed. Their vitals are monitored twice a day.
For moderate to severe COVID-19 cases in CCUs, the following drugs are used:
- Azithromycin 500 mg, once daily for five days;
- Hydroxychloroquine 400 mg on day 1 followed by 200 mg, twice daily for four days (under close medical supervision with monitoring for side effects including QTc interval);
- Omeprazole 40 mg, twice daily for five days;
- Ondansetron 4 mg, twice daily for five days;
- Zinc and Vitamin C supplements;
- Paracetamol 500 mg, three times a day.
- O2 supplementation given to maintain SpO2 more than 94%
Patient's vitals are monitored closely. They are also given a nutritious diet and mental health counseling. If their condition worsens, they are shifted to intensive care unit. A patient is discharged once they are clinically stable and two of their samples taken 24 hours apart test negative.
= Healthcare system =
{{See also|Healthcare in Chennai}}
File:CTC Covid-19 quarantine ward.jpg
The state has 3,371 ventilators and 29,074 beds in isolation wards according to the Department of Health and Family Welfare as of April 2.{{cite web|url=https://stopcorona.tn.gov.in/|title=Health & Family Welfare Department Government of Tamil Nadu Stop Corona Home|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200331222637/https://stopcorona.tn.gov.in/|archive-date=31 March 2020|access-date=2020-04-03}} It has ordered an additional 2,571 ventilators. The number of hospital beds available is 1.1 per 1000 population and 7.8 per 1000 for elderly population according to a Brookings report.{{cite web|url=https://www.brookings.edu/blog/up-front/2020/03/24/is-indias-health-infrastructure-equipped-to-handle-an-epidemic/|title=COVID-19 {{!}} Is India's health infrastructure equipped to handle an epidemic?|last=Chakraborty|first=Prachi Singh, Shamika Ravi, and Sikim|date=2020-03-24|website=Brookings|language=en-US|access-date=2020-04-16|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200409070819/https://www.brookings.edu/blog/up-front/2020/03/24/is-indias-health-infrastructure-equipped-to-handle-an-epidemic/|archive-date=9 April 2020|url-status=live}} As of 2 April, 21 government facilities are designated for treating COVID-19 illness cost free. As of 3 April, 25 private colleges and 110 private hospitals in the state are designated for treating COVID-19 illness.{{cite web|url=https://stopcorona.tn.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Private-Hospital-List.pdf|title=Private-Hospital-List.pdf|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200407063519/https://stopcorona.tn.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Private-Hospital-List.pdf|archive-date=7 April 2020}}{{cite web|url=https://stopcorona.tn.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Government-Hopital-treating-COVID-19.pdf|title=Government-Hopital-treating-COVID-19.pdf|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200407063630/https://stopcorona.tn.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Government-Hopital-treating-COVID-19.pdf|archive-date=7 April 2020}} As of 15 June 2020, officials said that the state can accommodate about one lakh moderately or mildly symptomatic COVID-19 patients in schools and colleges. Government has also begun identifying more public spaces to create care facilities across the state.
The Chennai Trade Center in Nandambakkam was converted into a 550-bed COVID-19 quarantine ward on April 14.{{cite web|url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/chennai/2020/apr/14/more-isolation-wards-get-ready-2129795.html|title=More isolation wards get ready|website=The New Indian Express|access-date=2020-04-18}} As many as 747 marriage halls and 50 schools were identified in Chennai to be converted as COVID-19 care centres.{{Cite web|title=Corporation to convert marriage halls to COVID care centres|url=https://www.dtnext.in/News/City/2020/05/04030348/1228180/Corporation-to-convert-marriage-halls-to-COVID-care-.vpf|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200714164945/https://www.dtnext.in/News/City/2020/05/04030348/1228180/Corporation-to-convert-marriage-halls-to-COVID-care-.vpf|url-status=dead|archive-date=14 July 2020|date=2020-05-04|website=dtNext.in|language=en|access-date=2020-05-04}} The Greater Chennai Corporation commissioner G Prakash said that the city plans to create 50,000 bed spaces to treat asymptomatic COVID-19 patients while adding that more than 98% of the cases in Chennai were asymptomatic. These milder cases will be sent to the care centres instead of a government hospital with intensive care.{{Cite web|title=Chennai Corona Update: Milder cases to be sent to 'care centres' in Chennai|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/milder-cases-to-be-sent-to-care-centres-in-chennai/articleshow/75482628.cms|date=May 1, 2020|first=Siddharth|last=Prabhakar|website=The Times of India|language=en|access-date=2020-05-04|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200503002944/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/milder-cases-to-be-sent-to-care-centres-in-chennai/articleshow/75482628.cms|archive-date=3 May 2020|url-status=live}} As of 4 May 2020, there were 4,000 such beds in Chennai at care centres and the Communicable Diseases Hospital in Tondiarpet. By 2 June, Chennai alone had 17,500 beds for COVID-19 care. The whole state had 75,000 beds.
On 7 June, the state government capped the COVID-19 treatment fees charged by private hospitals in the state. According to the issued guidelines, the maximum allowable daily treatment charges in higher grade (A1 and A2) hospitals were {{Indian Rupee|link=yes}}7,500 and {{Indian Rupee}}15,000 for general and ICU wards respectively. In lower grade hospitals (A3 and A4), they were {{Indian Rupee}}5,000 and {{Indian Rupee}}15,000.{{Cite news|date=2020-06-06|title=TN government caps COVID-19 treatment charges in private hospitals at Rs 15,000 per day in ICUs|work=The Economic Times|url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics-and-nation/tn-govt-caps-covid-19-treatment-charges-in-pvt-hospitals-at-rs-15000-per-day-in-icus/articleshow/76230615.cms|access-date=2020-06-07}} On 17 June, a 400-bed COVID-19 care facility of Christian Medical College was opened in Kannigapuram, Ranipet.{{Cite news|date=2020-06-17|title=Coronavirus {{!}} CMC opens 400-bed facility for COVID-19 patients in Kannigapuram|language=en-IN|work=The Hindu|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/coronavirus-cmc-opens-400-bed-facility-for-covid-19-patients-in-kannigapuram/article31855573.ece|access-date=2020-06-18|issn=0971-751X|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200617223708/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/coronavirus-cmc-opens-400-bed-facility-for-covid-19-patients-in-kannigapuram/article31855573.ece|archive-date=17 June 2020|url-status=live}}
Government response
The state government was among the first to launch measures against COVID-19. On 30 January, it had put 78 people who arrived from China under quarantine.{{Cite news|url=https://www.business-standard.com/article/current-affairs/coronavirus-outbreak-tamil-nadu-closes-borders-constitutes-task-force-120032201274_1.html|title=Coronavirus outbreak: Tamil Nadu closes borders, constitutes task force|work=Business Standard India|access-date=21 March 2020|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200323121451/https://www.business-standard.com/article/current-affairs/coronavirus-outbreak-tamil-nadu-closes-borders-constitutes-task-force-120032201274_1.html|archive-date=23 March 2020}} The state government had announced a {{INRConvert|3280|c|year=2020}} relief package on 24 March. It included financial support of {{INRConvert|1000|year=2020}} to all ration card holders, free rice and other essential commodities in the wake of lockdown. It also provided registered street vendors, autorickshaw drivers, migrant labourers and construction workers in the state with similar provisions.{{cite web|url=https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/news/national/tn-announces-3280-crore-relief-package/article31156022.ece|title=TN announces ₹3,280-crore relief package|website=@businessline|language=en|access-date=2020-04-01|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200325143624/https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/news/national/tn-announces-3280-crore-relief-package/article31156022.ece|archive-date=25 March 2020|url-status=live}} It had also announced extension periods of three months to make loan and tax payments for all citizens, and one month to pay house rent for workers including migrants across the state.{{cite web|url=https://www.thenewsminute.com/article/tn-govt-announces-one-month-rent-freeze-action-can-be-taken-if-house-owners-disobey-121552|title=TN govt announces one month rent freeze for workers, including migrants|website=The News Minute|access-date=1 April 2020}}{{Cite news|last=Narasimhan|first=T. E.|url=https://www.business-standard.com/article/current-affairs/covid-19-tamil-nadu-gives-3-month-extension-for-payment-of-taxes-loans-120033101318_1.html|title=Covid-19: Tamil Nadu gives 3-month extension for payment of taxes, loans|date=31 March 2020|work=Business Standard India|access-date=1 April 2020}} Currently, the government operates 311 relief camps and shelters for migrant workers.{{Cite news|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/coronavirus-centre-files-report-on-migrant-workers/article31283896.ece|title=Centre files report on migrant workers|date=2020-04-07|work=The Hindu|url-status=live|language=en-IN|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200408015424/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/coronavirus-centre-files-report-on-migrant-workers/article31283896.ece|archive-date=8 April 2020}}
Earlier, it had allocated sum of {{INRConvert|60|c}} from disaster relief fund to deal with the crisis. It had also taken steps to provide medicines for the next two months to patients with hypertension, diabetes mellitus, HIV and TB while also monitoring pregnant women who are due within that time.{{Cite news|last=Palaniswami|first=Edappadi K.|url=https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/lead/an-eye-each-on-containment-and-welfare/article31221845.ece|title=Tamil Nadu CM writes on how the State is stopping the pandemic in its tracks|date=2020-04-01|work=The Hindu|access-date=2020-04-01|language=en-IN|issn=0971-751X|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200401124254/https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/lead/an-eye-each-on-containment-and-welfare/article31221845.ece|archive-date=1 April 2020|url-status=live}}{{Cite news|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/chennai/pregnant-women-to-be-monitored/article31167753.ece|title=Pregnant women to be monitored|date=2020-03-25|work=The Hindu|access-date=2020-04-02|language=en-IN|issn=0971-751X|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200326171940/https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/chennai/pregnant-women-to-be-monitored/article31167753.ece|archive-date=26 March 2020|url-status=live}} The government had started screening passengers arriving at the airports in January. It had screened 2,10,538 passengers as of 1 April. As of 16 April, More than 1 lakh passengers have been placed under quarantine.{{cite web|title=Is Tamil Nadu nearing 0-cases scenario?|url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/tamil-nadu/2020/apr/17/is-tamil-nadu-nearing-0-cases-scenario-2131220.html|access-date=2020-04-17|website=The New Indian Express}}
The government has established helplines for public.{{cite web|url=https://stopcorona.tn.gov.in/whom-to-contact/|title=Health & Family Welfare Department Government of Tamil Nadu Stop Corona Contact Information|website=Stop Corona|access-date=2020-09-03}} It also released an app for officials to monitor people under home quarantine.{{cite web|url=https://www.deccanherald.com/national/south/coronavirus-tn-tracks-movements-of-home-quarantine-people-through-a-mobile-app-817853.html|title=Coronavirus: TN tracks movements of home quarantine people through a mobile app|date=2020-03-26|website=Deccan Herald|language=en|access-date=2020-04-01}} The government has announced a compensation of {{INRConvert|50|l}} to the families of those who die during COVID-19 duty.{{Cite web|url=https://newsd.in/tn-raises-compensation-for-those-who-die-during-corona-duty/|title=TN raises compensation for those who die during corona duty|date=2020-04-22|website=Newsd.in: Latest News Today, Breaking News from India & World|language=en-US|access-date=2020-04-28}}
On 31 March in the wake of the nationwide lockdown, the government announced a one-month rent freeze for students and workers, including migrant labourers. It also extended the time to make payments including loans and taxes by three months.
File:Covid-19 in India- Market in TN’s Tiruppur sets up disinfection tunnel for customers.webm before ban on its usage.]]
On 2 April, the government announced care package of {{INRConvert|1000|year=2020}} and monthly allowed ration of food supply for each household.{{cite web|url=http://www.stopcoronatn.in/files/8496PDIPR-P.R.No.249-TNPDS-PressRelease-Date02.04.2020.pdf|title=TNPDS-PressRelease-Date02.04.2020|access-date=4 April 2020|archive-date=19 April 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200419134944/http://www.stopcoronatn.in/files/8496PDIPR-P.R.No.249-TNPDS-PressRelease-Date02.04.2020.pdf|url-status=dead}}
On 13 April, Coimbatore district administration made usage of face masks compulsory for all.{{Cite news|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Coimbatore/mask-made-compulsory-in-coimbatore/article31333781.ece|title=Mask made compulsory in Coimbatore|date=2020-04-13|work=The Hindu|access-date=2020-04-14|language=en-IN|issn=0971-751X}}
On 26 April, the state government enacted a new ordinance to punish who try to block burial or cremation under Tamil Nadu Public Health Act, 1939.{{Cite news|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/3-years-in-jail-for-blocking-funeral/article31440025.ece|title=3 years in jail for blocking funeral|date=2020-04-26|work=The Hindu|access-date=2020-04-28|language=en-IN|issn=0971-751X|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200501222048/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/3-years-in-jail-for-blocking-funeral/article31440025.ece|archive-date=1 May 2020|url-status=live}}
The government agreed to allow flight operations from 25 May 2020. It limited incoming flights to Chennai International Airport to 25. Passengers showing symptoms will be subjected to tests and taken to hospitals if found positive, while ones without symptoms or with mild symptoms shall undergo 14 day home quarantine. All passengers are stamped with quarantine seals.{{Cite web|title=Domestic airlines allowed to fly to and from Tamil Nadu airports; e-pass required to enter state|url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/tamil-nadu/2020/may/24/domestic-airlines-allowed-to-fly-to-and-from-tamil-nadu-airports-e-pass-required-to-enter-state-2147475.html|website=The New Indian Express|access-date=2020-05-26|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200603075626/https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/tamil-nadu/2020/may/24/domestic-airlines-allowed-to-fly-to-and-from-tamil-nadu-airports-e-pass-required-to-enter-state-2147475.html|archive-date=3 June 2020|url-status=live}}{{Cite web|title=Tamil Nadu government allows domestic air travel; e-pass compulsory|url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tamil-nadu-government-allows-domestic-air-travel-e-pass-compulsory-300814|website=WION|language=en|access-date=2020-05-26|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200602010941/https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tamil-nadu-government-allows-domestic-air-travel-e-pass-compulsory-300814|archive-date=2 June 2020|url-status=live}}
= Suspensions and closedowns =
On 15 March 2020, Chief minister Edappadi K Palaniswami ordered closure of primary schools throughout the state while shutting theatres, commercial complexes and malls.{{cite web|url=https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/tamil-nadu-govt-to-release-rs-60-crore-disaster-relief-funds-to-tackle-coronavirus-shuts-primary-schools-1655752-2020-03-15|title=Tamil Nadu govt to release Rs 60 crore disaster relief fund to tackle coronavirus, shuts primary schools|last=Lobo|first=Shalini|website=India Today|language=en|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200316010520/https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/tamil-nadu-govt-to-release-rs-60-crore-disaster-relief-funds-to-tackle-coronavirus-shuts-primary-schools-1655752-2020-03-15|archive-date=16 March 2020|access-date=30 March 2020}} He had also ordered to close state borders with Karnataka, Kerala and Andhra Pradesh on March 20 until March 31 and constituted a task force to closely monitor the preventive measures against the viral outbreak.{{cite web|url=https://www.outlookindia.com/newsscroll/tn-closes-border-roads-movement-of-essentials-allowed/1774787|title=TN closes border roads, movement of essentials allowed|website=Outlook India|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200323121451/https://www.outlookindia.com/newsscroll/tn-closes-border-roads-movement-of-essentials-allowed/1774787|archive-date=23 March 2020|access-date=21 March 2020}}
On 22 March 2020, the state government extended 'Janata curfew' to Monday morning 5 am.{{Cite news|url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics-and-nation/tamil-nadu-govt-extends-janata-curfew-till-monday-morning/articleshow/74758800.cms|title=Tamil Nadu govt extends 'Janata curfew' till Monday morning|date=2020-03-22|work=The Economic Times|access-date=2020-03-23|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200502153432/https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics-and-nation/tamil-nadu-govt-extends-janata-curfew-till-monday-morning/articleshow/74758800.cms|archive-date=2 May 2020|url-status=live}} The next day, it announced that prohibitory orders under Section 144 will start from 24 March 6 pm until March 31 which prohibits gatherings of more than 5 people.{{cite web|url=https://www.thenewsminute.com/article/tn-imposes-section-144-week-no-gatherings-more-5-people-120912|title=TN imposes Section 144 for a week, no gatherings of more than 5 people|date=23 March 2020|website=thenewsminute.com|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200323102039/https://www.thenewsminute.com/article/tn-imposes-section-144-week-no-gatherings-more-5-people-120912|archive-date=23 March 2020|access-date=23 March 2020}} On the same day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced a nationwide lockdown.{{cite news|url=https://www.cnn.com/2020/03/23/asia/coronavirus-covid-19-update-india-intl-hnk/index.html|title=India places millions under lockdown to fight coronavirus|first1=Helen|last1=Regan|first2=Esha|last2=Mitra|first3=Swati|last3=Gupta|website=CNN|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200325053856/https://www.cnn.com/2020/03/23/asia/coronavirus-covid-19-update-india-intl-hnk/index.html|archive-date=25 March 2020|access-date=31 March 2020}} On 11 April, the state's chief secretary K Shanmugam said that it favoured a two-week extension of the lockdown, but would wait for PM's announcement.{{cite web|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/tamil-nadu-wants-lockdown-extended-by-two-weeks-but-will-await-pm-modis-call/articleshow/75106907.cms|title=Tamil Nadu Lockdown: Tamil Nadu wants lockdown extended by two weeks, but will await PM Modi's call|last=Mariappan|first=Julie|website=The Times of India|language=en|access-date=2020-04-13|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200413154126/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/tamil-nadu-wants-lockdown-extended-by-two-weeks-but-will-await-pm-modis-call/articleshow/75106907.cms|archive-date=13 April 2020|url-status=live}}
== Lockdown extensions and relaxations ==
=== 2020 ===
- 13 April, the state government extended the lock-down until 30 April.{{cite web|url=https://www.financialexpress.com/india-news/coronavirus-lockdown-tamil-nadu-extends-restrictions-till-april-30-day-before-pm-modis-address-to-nation/1927168/|title=Coronavirus lockdown: Tamil Nadu extends restrictions till April 30 day before PM Modi's address to nation|date=2020-04-13|website=The Financial Express|language=en-US|access-date=2020-04-14}}
- 20 April, the state government extended the lockdown until May 3 without any further relaxation.{{Cite news|last=Jesudasan|first=Dennis S.|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/tamil-nadu-decides-to-continue-lockdown-till-may-3/article31387640.ece|title=Tamil Nadu decides to continue lockdown till May 3|date=2020-04-20|work=The Hindu|access-date=2020-04-21|language=en-IN|issn=0971-751X|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200421163451/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/tamil-nadu-decides-to-continue-lockdown-till-may-3/article31387640.ece|archive-date=21 April 2020|url-status=live}}
- 23 April, the government issued an order to relax the lockdown in non-containment zones. This included MGNREGA works, construction in rural areas and continuous process industries including refineries, steel, glass and cement plants.{{Cite web|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/tn-govt-relaxes-curbs-allows-job-scheme-construction-in-villages/articleshow/75335170.cms|title=Tamil Nadu government relaxes curbs, allows job scheme, construction in villages|date=April 24, 2020|first=Julie|last=Mariappan|website=The Times of India|language=en|access-date=2020-04-24|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200424183728/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/tn-govt-relaxes-curbs-allows-job-scheme-construction-in-villages/articleshow/75335170.cms|archive-date=24 April 2020|url-status=live}}
- 24 April, the Chief Minister announced that a complete lockdown would be imposed in Chennai, Coimbatore, Madurai, Salem and Tiruppur corporations. The lockdown will be in effect from 6 a.m. on 26 April to 9 p.m. on 29 April in Chennai, Coimbatore and Madurai. Meanwhile, in Salem and Tiruppur, it will be imposed from 6 a.m. on 26 April to 9 p.m. on 28 April. The statement said that except certain essential services, no shops will be allowed to open.{{Cite news|last=Jesudasan|first=Dennis S.|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/complete-lockdown-for-four-days-in-chennai-madurai-and-coimbatore-tamil-nadu-chief-minister-says/article31423203.ece|title=Complete lockdown for four days in Chennai, Madurai and Coimbatore, says Tamil Nadu Chief Minister|date=2020-04-24|work=The Hindu|access-date=2020-04-24|language=en-IN|issn=0971-751X|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200424112944/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/complete-lockdown-for-four-days-in-chennai-madurai-and-coimbatore-tamil-nadu-chief-minister-says/article31423203.ece|archive-date=24 April 2020|url-status=live}}
- 29 April, the Chief Minister announced that the regular lockdown would continue after the complete lockdown imposed until 29 April. Shops will be open from 6am to 5pm on 30 April and from May 1 onwards, shops will be only open until 1pm.{{Cite web|title=Coronavirus: Chennai worst hit in Tamil Nadu, complete shutdown ends today|url=https://www.indiatoday.in/world/story/coronavirus-chennai-cases-deaths-complete-lockdown-ends-1672395-2020-04-29|last=Nath|first=Akshaya|date=April 29, 2020|website=India Today|language=en|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200501073647/https://www.indiatoday.in/world/story/coronavirus-chennai-cases-deaths-complete-lockdown-ends-1672395-2020-04-29|archive-date=1 May 2020|access-date=1 May 2020}}
- 2 May, the state government announced the extension of lockdown from 4 May to 17 May 2020 with some relaxations.{{Cite web|title=Tamilnadu-Government-Press-Release-02.05.2020|url=https://stopcorona.tn.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Tamilnadu-Government-Press-Release-02.05.2020-2-Pages-English-96-KB.pdf|date=2 May 2020|website=stopcorona.tn.gov.in|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200516092057/https://stopcorona.tn.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Tamilnadu-Government-Press-Release-02.05.2020-2-Pages-English-96-KB.pdf|archive-date=16 May 2020|access-date=6 May 2020}}{{Cite news|last=Babu|first=Gireesh|date=2020-05-03|title=Lockdown 3.0: Tamil Nadu allows industries to start ops with restrictions|work=Business Standard India|url=https://www.business-standard.com/article/current-affairs/lockdown-3-0-tamil-nadu-allows-industries-to-start-ops-with-restrictions-120050300859_1.html|access-date=2020-05-06|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200506152052/https://www.business-standard.com/article/current-affairs/lockdown-3-0-tamil-nadu-allows-industries-to-start-ops-with-restrictions-120050300859_1.html|archive-date=6 May 2020|url-status=live}} While the relaxations did not apply to containment zones (hotspots), it applied to non-containment zones inside all red, orange and green zones. Sectors like construction, textile, IT, SEZs are permitted to operate in certain locations with limited employees while adhering to social distancing. Shops dealing non-essential goods are allowed to function between 11{{Nbsp}}a.m. to 5{{Nbsp}}p.m. while essential goods shop are to be open 6{{Nbsp}}a.m. to 5{{Nbsp}}p.m.{{Cite web|title=Lockdown 3.0: Tamil Nadu announces implementation of MHA guidelines|url=https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/lockdown-3-0-tamil-nadu-announces-implementation-of-mha-guidelines-1673707-2020-05-02|last=Nath|first=Akshaya|website=India Today|language=en|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200504003725/https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/lockdown-3-0-tamil-nadu-announces-implementation-of-mha-guidelines-1673707-2020-05-02|archive-date=4 May 2020|access-date=2020-05-06}} Self-employed may work after obtaining necessary permissions from district collector or city police commissioner.
- 31 May, the state extended the lockdown until 30 June. It partially allowed public transport and other relaxations in districts except Chennai, Kancheepurm, Tiruvallur and Chengalpattu. The lockdown still prohibits places of worship, shopping malls, metro rails, interstate bus and suburban train services from functioning across the state.{{Cite web|title=Tamil Nadu extends coronavirus lockdown till June 30 but with more relaxations|url=https://www.livemint.com/news/india/tamil-nadu-extends-coronavirus-lockdown-till-june-30-but-with-more-relaxations-11590895424049.html|date=2020-05-31|website=Livemint|language=en|access-date=2020-05-31|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200531162709/https://www.livemint.com/news/india/tamil-nadu-extends-coronavirus-lockdown-till-june-30-but-with-more-relaxations-11590895424049.html|archive-date=31 May 2020|url-status=live}}
- 15 June, strict quarantine in the containment zones from 19 to 30 June was announced by the government after recommendation from an expert medical panel in four districts worst hit by the pandemic. The districts include, Chennai, Kanchipuram, Chengalpattu and Tiruvallur. All previously applied relaxations are to be negated. Experts in the panel met with the CM, said that the spread in Tamil Nadu was at its peak and cases will decline but warned about a possible second wave of infection in next three to four months.{{Cite news|date=2020-06-15|title=Experts recommend T.N. govt. to tighten lockdown relaxations in certain areas|language=en-IN|work=The Hindu|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/experts-recommend-tn-govt-to-tighten-lockdown-relaxations-in-certain-areas/article31832315.ece|access-date=2020-06-15|issn=0971-751X|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200615155729/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/experts-recommend-tn-govt-to-tighten-lockdown-relaxations-in-certain-areas/article31832315.ece|archive-date=15 June 2020|url-status=live}} Through a special notification that was issued by the state's Chief Secretary, these districts had to face an intense lockdown due to an increase in COVID-19 cases "due to the large urban population and also the fact that in many zones the houses are located in close proximity and the average living space is also small". As per Chennai City police commissioner, people are not to be allowed to use private vehicles unless for a medical emergency.
- 25 June, the state again curbed the inter-district movement of the state transport corporation's buses and private vehicles as a strategy to control the spread of new COVID-19 cases in the state.{{Cite web|title=Covid-19 scare: Tamil Nadu CM suspends inter-district movement of buses, cars till June 30|url=https://www.timesnownews.com/chennai/article/covid-19-scare-tamil-nadu-cm-suspends-inter-district-movement-of-buses-cars-till-june/611577|access-date=2020-06-26|website=timesnownews.com|language=en}}
- 30 July, the lockdown was further extended until 31 August 2020 with added relaxations.{{Cite news|title=Tamil Nadu extends lockdown till August 31 in the state, offers more relaxations|work=The Economic Times|url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics-and-nation/tamil-nadu-extends-lockdown-till-august-31-in-the-state-offers-more-relaxations/articleshow/77257587.cms|access-date=2020-08-01}}
=== 2021 ===
{{update section|date=January 2022}}
= Sanitisation Measures =
State government also responded by undertaking various sanitation measures. The fire services department is amongst the key government agencies undertaking the disinfecting drives.{{Cite web|date=2020-06-05|title=Royal Enfield bikes with disinfectant sprayers to sanitise alleys in Tamil Nadu|url=https://auto.hindustantimes.com/auto/news/royal-enfield-bikes-with-disinfectant-sprayers-to-sanitise-alleys-in-tamil-nadu-41591339750178.html|access-date=2020-06-26|website=Hindustan Times Auto News|language=en}} Various means and modes have been used including disinfectant tunnels, drones, and royal enfields. In the early weeks of COVID's incidence in the state, some of the cities had set up disinfectant tunnels however once the harmful impact of these tunnels (their chemicals) was known, Tamil Nadu government advised the District Collectors to discontinue their use.{{Cite web|date=April 16, 2020|title=No more Covid-19 disinfectant tunnels in Tamil Nadu|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/no-more-covid-19-disinfectant-tunnels-in-tamil-nadu/articleshow/75179604.cms|access-date=2020-06-26|website=The Times of India|language=en}} The state also is using the drones to disinfect parts of the state. For example, drones were used to disinfect crowded parts of Chennai. Similarly, mist cannons (trucks carrying huge blowers), butterfly sprinklers were also used. Jet spray guns mounted on vehicles were also used in narrow lanes to spray disinfectants.{{Cite news|date=2020-04-11|title=COVID-19: Drones, mist cannons, creativity, speed up disinfection work in TN|work=The Economic Times|url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics-and-nation/covid-19-drones-mist-cannons-creativity-speed-up-disinfection-work-in-tn/articleshow/75092159.cms|access-date=2020-06-26}} Recently, Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami inaugurated the use of nine Royal Enfield bikes which were fitted with disinfectant sprayers. They are to be used in the narrow streets of containment zones.
= Containment measures =
{{multiple image
| align = right
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| width = 200
| image1 = COVID19 Containment measure in Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu - 1.png
| caption1 = A street is closed-off by municipality in Kanchipuram as a containment measure in April 2020
| image2 = COVID19 Containment measure in Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu.png
| caption2 = Same street from inside the containment.
}}
If a street records more than five COVID-19 cases, it is designated as a containment zone and the entire street would be sealed. If a containment zone does not have positive cases for at least 14 days, it can be denotified. Previously, in April 2020, as per the government's initial containment plan, every infected persons' residence were demarcated as containment zones of 5 km2 radius in 16 districts. It was ringed by an additional 3 km2 buffer zone.{{cite web|url=https://www.deccanherald.com/national/south/tamil-nadu-screens-households-in-vulnerable-areas-to-prevent-coronavirus-spread-819999.html|title=Tamil Nadu screens households in vulnerable areas to prevent coronavirus spread|date=2020-04-01|website=Deccan Herald|language=en|access-date=2020-04-02}}{{cite web|url=https://www.deccanherald.com/national/south/tamil-nadu-coronavirus-cases-rises-to-74-nizamuddin-link-to-a-chunk-of-it-surfaces-819633.html|title=Tamil Nadu coronavirus cases rises to 74, Nizamuddin link to a chunk of it surfaces|date=2020-03-31|website=Deccan Herald|language=en|access-date=2020-03-31}} People found infected were quarantined and the area where they lived is added into the containment plan.{{cite web|url=https://www.news18.com/news/politics/over-2-lakh-passengers-screened-43000-in-home-quarantine-tamil-nadu-cm-assures-state-ready-to-battle-covid-19-2559869.html|title='Over 2 Lakh Passengers Screened, 43,000 in Home Quarantine': Tamil Nadu CM Assures State Ready to Battle Covid-19|date=2020-04-01|website=News18|access-date=2020-04-01}} Houses inside the containment zones are and disinfected every day. Fever camps and door-to-door screening are also carried out in the identified hotspots. As of 9 June, Chennai has the most containment zones in the state with 369. It is followed by Tiruvannamalai and Cuddalore with 29 and 26 zones.{{Cite web|last=Mariappan|first=Julie|title=Covid-19: With new definitions, Tamil Nadu now has only 316 containment zones|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/with-new-definitions-tamil-nadu-now-has-only-316-containment-zones/articleshow/76281666.cms|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200609172402/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/with-new-definitions-tamil-nadu-now-has-only-316-containment-zones/articleshow/76281666.cms|archive-date=9 June 2020|access-date=2020-06-18|website=The Times of India|language=en}}
From 29 March, as part of its containment plan, the government had screened 3,96,147 people in their houses inside containment zones of 16 affected districts for fever and other symptoms. It was in process of screening up to 7 lakh persons.
Stickers announcing that "COVID-19/Do not Visit/Home under quarantine," were pasted on the doors of houses of foreign returnees to warn the public.{{cite web|title=54,000 people who landed from overseas to be home quarantined|url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/tamil-nadu/2020/mar/27/54000-people-who-landed-from-overseas-to-be-home-quarantined-2122007.html|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200401214313/https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/tamil-nadu/2020/mar/27/54000-people-who-landed-from-overseas-to-be-home-quarantined-2122007.html|archive-date=1 April 2020|access-date=2 April 2020}} Authorities had also marked their arms with home quarantine stamps.{{cite web|title=Tamil Nadu goes under lockdown; home quarantine stickers pasted on doors of foreign returnees|url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/tamil-nadu/2020/mar/24/tamil-nadu-goes-under-lockdown-home-quarantine-stickers-pasted-on-doors-of-foreign-returnees-2121106.html|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200326175649/https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/tamil-nadu/2020/mar/24/tamil-nadu-goes-under-lockdown-home-quarantine-stickers-pasted-on-doors-of-foreign-returnees-2121106.html|archive-date=26 March 2020|access-date=2020-03-31|website=The New Indian Express}} Government launched a mobile application to allow people under home quarantine to interact healthcare professionals for getting medical advice and counselling.{{cite web|date=2020-03-22|title=Coronavirus: Tamil Nadu launches app to provide advice to those under home quarantine|url=https://www.deccanherald.com/national/south/coronavirus-tamil-nadu-launches-app-to-provide-advice-to-those-under-home-quarantine-816562.html|access-date=2020-03-31|website=Deccan Herald|language=en}}
As of 31 March, 74,533 passengers who had returned from affected countries are being monitored under 28 day home quarantine. 3470 have completed this quarantine. 79 are currently in institutional quarantine facilities across the state.
On 11 April, the state deployed 12 'Special Task Teams' each comprising an IAS/IPS officers to coordinate with the respective district collectors to manage the pandemic-affected districts. The teams monitor contact tracing and ensures quick sampling, testing and release of results.{{Cite news|last=Kumar|first=S. Vijay|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/coronavirus-tamil-nadu-deploys-senior-bureaucrats-to-manage-pandemic-in-districts/article31317820.ece|title=Coronavirus {{!}} Tamil Nadu deploys senior bureaucrats to manage pandemic in districts|date=2020-04-11|work=The Hindu|access-date=2020-04-11|language=en-IN|issn=0971-751X|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200411140319/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/coronavirus-tamil-nadu-deploys-senior-bureaucrats-to-manage-pandemic-in-districts/article31317820.ece|archive-date=11 April 2020|url-status=live}}
= Social distancing measures =
Tamil Nadu Government's Health and Family Welfare Dept had issued Standard Operating Procedures for social distancing for offices, workplaces, factories and establishments in April 2020. These SOPs provided measures regarding disinfecting, transport of people, gatherings, guidance on use of common spaces, lifts and others.{{Cite web|date=16 Apr 2020|title=COVID-19-Health and Family Welfare Department -Standard Operating Procedure for Social Distancing of Offices, Workplaces, Factories and Establishments-Orders Issued.|url=https://cms.tn.gov.in/sites/default/files/go/hfw_e_191_2020.pdf|access-date=20 June 2020}} Social distancing is being enforced as per contextual needs of various kinds of organisations. Tamil Nadu Government said that a total of 12,690 examination centres have been readied for the 10th class students to take their board exams. It also planned to distribute masks to about 46.37 lakh students of class 10 and higher secondary, besides teachers and other staff during the examination period. Per exam hall, only 10 students were to be allowed to take exams to ensure social distancing.{{Cite news|date=22 May 2020|title=Social distancing, special exam centres for Class 10 exams: Tamil Nadu government|work=The New Indian Express|url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/tamil-nadu/2020/may/22/social-distancing-special-exam-centres-for-class-10-exams-tamil-nadu-government-2146392.html|url-status=live|access-date=20 June 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200530211156/https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/tamil-nadu/2020/may/22/social-distancing-special-exam-centres-for-class-10-exams-tamil-nadu-government-2146392.html|archive-date=30 May 2020}} State government resumed the operations of public buses from June 1 and to ensure social distancing, only 50% buses were being operated and the commuter capacity was capped to 60%. However the social distancing was hard to implement as people rushed onto the buses. The government also mentioned use of Paytm for contactless ticketing.{{Cite web|last=Vignessh|date=2020-06-01|title=Social distancing goes for a toss as people rush onto buses in TN|url=https://thefederal.com/states/south/tamil-nadu/social-distancing-goes-for-a-toss-as-people-rush-onto-buses-in-tn/|access-date=2020-06-19|website=The Federal|language=en-US}}
= Medical supplies =
The newly built Omandurar Government Multispeciality Hospital in Chennai was converted with 500 beds to exclusively treat COVID-19 patients.{{Cite news|last=Kannan|first=Ramya|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu-announces-dedicated-hospital-for-covid-19-patients/article31146741.ece|title=Tamil Nadu announces dedicated hospital for COVID-19 patients|date=2020-03-24|work=The Hindu|access-date=2020-03-24|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200328230331/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu-announces-dedicated-hospital-for-covid-19-patients/article31146741.ece|archive-date=28 March 2020|language=en-IN|issn=0971-751X}} The government had also issued appointment order to recruit 530 doctors, 1,000 nurses and 1,508 lab technicians with immediate effect due to the situation. Orders for 200 new ambulances in the state have also been placed.{{cite web|url=https://zeenews.india.com/india/tamil-nadu-recruits-530-doctors-1508-lab-technicians-1000-nurses-to-contain-coronavirus-covid-19-outbreak-cm-k-palaniswami-2272083.html|title=Tamil Nadu recruits 530 doctors, 1508 lab technicians, 1000 nurses to contain coronavirus COVID-19 outbreak: CM K Palaniswami|date=2020-03-27|website=Zee News|language=en|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200327100522/https://zeenews.india.com/india/tamil-nadu-recruits-530-doctors-1508-lab-technicians-1000-nurses-to-contain-coronavirus-covid-19-outbreak-cm-k-palaniswami-2272083.html|archive-date=27 March 2020|access-date=2020-04-01}}
On 3 April, in order to ease the strain on the state's healthcare system, the government announced an incentive package of 30% capital investment with a cap of {{INRConvert|20|c}} for new manufacturers of medical equipment such as ventilators, PPE kits, N-95 masks, multi para monitors and drugs such as hydroxychloroquine, azithromycin and vitamin C tablets.{{cite web|url=https://www.investindia.gov.in/team-india-blogs/tamil-nadu-fights-covid-19-business-way|title=Tamil Nadu fights COVID-19 the business way|website=investindia.gov.in|language=en|access-date=2020-04-09}} After the announcement, eight small and medium-scale companies approached the government to manufacture the required medical equipment. Tamil Nadu Medical Services Corporation said that it would purchase at least 50% of the equipment manufactured by these companies between May and June.{{cite web|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/8-firms-offer-to-supply-ppe-kits-to-tamil-nadu/articleshow/75089933.cms|title=8 firms offer to supply PPE kits to Tamil Nadu|website=The Times of India|language=en|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200412123252/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/8-firms-offer-to-supply-ppe-kits-to-tamil-nadu/articleshow/75089933.cms|archive-date=12 April 2020|access-date=2020-04-12}}
= Legal action =
As of 10 June 2020, 5,66,897 violations have been reported and 4,59,771 vehicles have been seized in the state for defying lockdown. According to state police, 6,11,064 violators were arrested for venturing out without a valid reason. A total fine of {{Indian Rupee}}11.39 crore has been collected.{{Cite news|date=2020-06-10|title=Lockdown violations in Tamil Nadu touch 5.6 lakh|language=en-IN|work=The Hindu|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/lockdown-violations-in-tamil-nadu-touch-56-lakh/article31793163.ece|access-date=2020-06-21|issn=0971-751X|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200610081600/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/lockdown-violations-in-tamil-nadu-touch-56-lakh/article31793163.ece|archive-date=10 June 2020|url-status=live}}
Impact
{{Update|section|updated=April 2020|date=June 2020}}
{{see also|Economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic}}
= Economy =
File:Covid 19 Tiruppur Tamil Nadu IMG 20200420 112244622.jpg]]
The Chief Minister shared a projection of the revenue losses that the state may face due to the pandemic. He said that the state may face a loss of about ₹85,000 crore and that a loss of about ₹35,000 crore has already been incurred. He said, "Revenue receipts have dried up over the past two months. With industries and businesses remaining shut, we would sustain a loss of about ₹12,000-13,000 crore a month as per the Finance Secretary's projections". Previously, he had cited and estimate of the Finance Department and pegged the revenue loss at ₹35,000 crore.{{Cite news|last=Ganesan|first=S.|date=2020-06-26|title=Tamil Nadu could lose ₹85,000 crore in revenue due to COVID-19, says Chief Minister|language=en-IN|work=The Hindu|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/tamil-nadu-could-lose-85000-crore-in-revenue-due-to-covid-19-says-chief-minister/article31924264.ece|access-date=2020-06-26|issn=0971-751X}}
On 23 April, the state government exempted e-commerce companies of food processing units, export/import packing houses, research facilities agriculture and horticulture activities from lockdown restrictions. It also exempted bed-side attendants and caregivers of senior citizens.
Due to the financial crisis, the state government froze dearness allowance and earned leave encashment for its employees and pensioners until July 2021.{{Cite web|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/tamil-nadu-government-freezes-da-hike/articleshow/75419396.cms|title=Tamil Nadu government freezes DA hike|website=The Times of India|language=en|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200429215430/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/tamil-nadu-government-freezes-da-hike/articleshow/75419396.cms|archive-date=29 April 2020|access-date=2020-04-28}}
== Agriculture ==
The nationwide lockdown has impacted farmers and floriculturists in the state. The Tamil Nadu Federation of All Farmers' Association said that about 15 lakh acres of summer paddy and 8 lakh acres of groundnuts across the state were affected due absence of labour for harvesting amid lockdown. Perishables such as fruits and vegetables cannot be taken to markets without transportation.{{Cite web|url=https://www.businessinsider.in/india/news/almost-15-lakh-acres-of-land-in-tamil-nadu-stands-bare-as-lockdown-grounds-farmers/articleshow/74830495.cms|title=Almost 15 lakh acres of land in Tamil Nadu stands bare as lockdown grounds farmers|website=Business Insider|access-date=2020-04-24|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200412011522/https://www.businessinsider.in/india/news/almost-15-lakh-acres-of-land-in-tamil-nadu-stands-bare-as-lockdown-grounds-farmers/articleshow/74830495.cms|archive-date=12 April 2020|url-status=live}}
== Food and grocery supply ==
File:Corona Lockdown Tirupur, Tamil Nadu (2).jpg
Shops dealing food takeaways, groceries, fruits and vegetables, dairy, meat and fish were allowed to function during the lockdown.{{cite web|url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/galleries/nation/2020/mar/24/tamil-nadu-lockdown-from-hospitals-to-food-delivery-what-services-will-be-affected-and-exempted-f-102808.html|title=Tamil Nadu lockdown: From hospitals to food delivery, what services will be affected and exempted. Find out|website=The New Indian Express|access-date=2020-04-18|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200324233143/https://www.newindianexpress.com/galleries/nation/2020/mar/24/tamil-nadu-lockdown-from-hospitals-to-food-delivery-what-services-will-be-affected-and-exempted-f-102808.html|archive-date=24 March 2020|url-status=live}} Online food delivery services were briefly banned{{Cite news|last=Shrivastava|first=Aditi|url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics-and-nation/chennai-bans-delivery-of-cooked-food/articleshow/74837380.cms|title=Chennai bans delivery of cooked food|date=2020-03-27|work=The Economic Times|access-date=27 March 2020}}{{cite web|url=https://entrackr.com/2020/03/swiggy-and-zomato-not-allowed-to-deliver-in-tamil-nadu/|title=Swiggy and Zomato not allowed to deliver in Tamil Nadu|last=Upadhyay|first=Harsh|date=26 March 2020|website=Entrackr|language=en-US|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200327081146/https://entrackr.com/2020/03/swiggy-and-zomato-not-allowed-to-deliver-in-tamil-nadu/|archive-date=27 March 2020|access-date=27 March 2020}} and allowed later by the government after imposing some regulations.{{cite web|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/covid-19-tamil-nadu-allows-swiggy-zomato-other-apps-to-home-deliver-cooked-food/articleshow/74852688.cms|title=Covid-19: Tamil Nadu allows Swiggy, Zomato, other apps to home deliver cooked food|last=Sundaram|first=Ram|date=27 March 2020|website=The Times of India|language=en|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200329135126/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/covid-19-tamil-nadu-allows-swiggy-zomato-other-apps-to-home-deliver-cooked-food/articleshow/74852688.cms|archive-date=29 March 2020|access-date=2020-03-31}} The government has also issued identification cards for essential service providers that allow supply of goods and services without being stopped by the police.{{Cite news|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/essential-service-providers-to-get-id-cards/article31176329.ece|title=Essential service providers to get ID cards|date=2020-03-26|work=The Hindu|access-date=2020-04-18|language=en-IN|issn=0971-751X|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200411193829/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/essential-service-providers-to-get-id-cards/article31176329.ece|archive-date=11 April 2020|url-status=live}} On 4 April, the operating hours of essential stores during lock-down was reduced to 6 am to 1 pm.{{cite web|url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/tamil-nadu/2020/apr/05/tamil-nadu-people-can-buy-essentials-only-between-6-am-to-1-pm-now-2125875.html|title=Tamil Nadu people can buy essentials only between 6 am to 1 pm now|website=The New Indian Express|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200406200806/https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/tamil-nadu/2020/apr/05/tamil-nadu-people-can-buy-essentials-only-between-6-am-to-1-pm-now-2125875.html|archive-date=6 April 2020|access-date=2020-04-05}}
To avoid overcrowding and to in markets, the state has converted bus stations in towns and cities into vegetable markets. They were also installed with disinfectant tunnels. Later, the government ordered a ban on such tunnels since it was ineffective.{{cite web|url=https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/covid-19-top-health-official-in-tamil-nadu-issues-orders-banning-use-of-disinfection-tunnels-1666070-2020-04-12|title=Covid-19: Top health official in Tamil Nadu issues orders banning use of disinfection tunnels|last=Nath|first=Akshaya|website=India Today|language=en|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200412060600/https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/covid-19-top-health-official-in-tamil-nadu-issues-orders-banning-use-of-disinfection-tunnels-1666070-2020-04-12|archive-date=12 April 2020|access-date=2020-04-12}}{{cite web|url=https://www.deccanherald.com/national/south/coronavirus-tamil-nadu-says-no-to-new-disinfection-tunnels-823888.html|title=Coronavirus: Tamil Nadu says no to new disinfection tunnels|date=2020-04-10|website=Deccan Herald|language=en|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200412060557/https://www.deccanherald.com/national/south/coronavirus-tamil-nadu-says-no-to-new-disinfection-tunnels-823888.html|archive-date=12 April 2020|access-date=2020-04-12}} In Chennai, the corporation and horticulture department has started door delivery service of vegetables.{{cite web|url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/tamil-nadu/2020/apr/08/new-mobile-markets-in-tamil-nadu-to-prevent-people-crowding-vegetable-markets-grocery-stores-2127378.html|title=New 'Mobile Markets' in Tamil Nadu to prevent people crowding vegetable markets, grocery stores|website=The New Indian Express|access-date=2020-04-18|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200411033758/https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/tamil-nadu/2020/apr/08/new-mobile-markets-in-tamil-nadu-to-prevent-people-crowding-vegetable-markets-grocery-stores-2127378.html|archive-date=11 April 2020|url-status=live}} Amma canteens were also functional. They provided free food for sanitation workers during the lockdown period in Chennai.{{cite web|url=https://m.thewire.in/article/government/in-lockdown-tamil-nadus-amma-canteens-rise-to-the-occasion|title=In Lockdown, Tamil Nadu's Amma Canteens Rise to the Occasion|website=The Wire|access-date=2020-04-18|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200424132648/https://m.thewire.in/article/government/in-lockdown-tamil-nadus-amma-canteens-rise-to-the-occasion|archive-date=24 April 2020|url-status=live}}
= Education =
Primary schools were closed in the state as early as 15 March. On 21 March, the Class 10 SSLC board exams were postponed to beyond April 14, which were due to begin from March 27.{{cite news|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/covid-19-tamil-nadus-class-10-board-exams-postponed/article31127217.ece|title=COVID-19: Tamil Nadu's Class 10 board exams postponed|access-date=23 March 2020|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200322145203/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/covid-19-tamil-nadus-class-10-board-exams-postponed/article31127217.ece|archive-date=22 March 2020}} Students of class 1–9 in the state will be promoted automatically considering the closure of schools.{{cite web|url=https://www.livemint.com/news/india/class-1-9-students-will-be-promoted-in-tamil-nadu-due-to-closure-of-schools-cm-11585134717305.html|title=Class 1-9 students will be promoted in Tamil Nadu due to closure of schools: CM|date=25 March 2020|website=Livemint|language=en|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200325135110/https://www.livemint.com/news/india/class-1-9-students-will-be-promoted-in-tamil-nadu-due-to-closure-of-schools-cm-11585134717305.html|archive-date=25 March 2020|access-date=25 March 2020}} On 16 April, the Department of Higher Education postponed the summer semester exams for academic year 2019–20 to the beginning of next academic year for all colleges and universities in Tamil Nadu.{{cite web|url=https://stopcorona.tn.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Press-Release-Higher-Education-Department-16.04.2020-1-Page-Tamil-26-KB.pdf|title=Press-Release-Higher-Education-Department-16.04.2020-1-Page-Tamil-26-KB.pdf}}
= Social =
Evidence, a Non Governmental Organization based on Madurai reported that violence against Scheduled Caste members increased during the period of lockdown and at least 25 instances of violence were recorded in 30 days from March 24. In one incident on April 22, 15 huts belonging to the Dalit community were destroyed.{{Cite news|date=2020-04-29|title=Violence against SC community in T.N. on the rise during lockdown: study|language=en-IN|work=The Hindu|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/violence-against-sc-community-in-tn-on-the-rise-during-lockdown-study/article31460805.ece|issn=0971-751X}}
On 10 April in Ariyalur, a 60-year-old man in the COVID-19 isolation ward of Ariyalur Government Hospital committed suicide while awaiting his test results. However his results returned negative.{{cite web|url=https://www.deccanherald.com/national/south/tamil-nadu-man-hangs-self-in-isolation-ward-later-tests-negative-for-covid-19-823884.html|title=Tamil Nadu man hangs self in isolation ward; later tests negative for COVID-19|date=2020-04-10|website=Deccan Herald|language=en|access-date=2020-04-12|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200411052437/https://www.deccanherald.com/national/south/tamil-nadu-man-hangs-self-in-isolation-ward-later-tests-negative-for-covid-19-823884.html|archive-date=11 April 2020|url-status=live}} Reports of thefts from liquor shops, which were shut by the state government, have emerged.{{cite web|url=https://www.livemint.com/|title=Business News Today, Stock Market News, Sensex & Finance News|website=Livemint|language=en|access-date=2020-04-12|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200330035137/https://www.livemint.com/|archive-date=30 March 2020|url-status=live}}
On 20 April, an ambulance carrying the body of a doctor who had died due to COVID-19 was blocked and attacked by locals in Chennai, who protested against the burial at their locality fearing virus spread.{{Cite web|url=https://frontline.thehindu.com/dispatches/article31387157.ece|title=Mob tries to prevent doctor's burial in Chennai, 20 arrested|last=Radhakrishnan|first=R. K.|website=Frontline|date=19 April 2020 |language=en|access-date=2020-04-28|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200427083727/https://frontline.thehindu.com/dispatches/article31387157.ece|archive-date=27 April 2020|url-status=live}} The ambulance driver was injured and the body had to be cremated in a different cemetery. 20 were arrested.{{Citation needed|date=November 2021}}
= Entertainment =
== Television industry ==
{{Main|Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on television}}
Indian channel Sun TV abruptly officially ended four of its running television soap operas such as Chocolate, Azhagu, Kalyana Parisu and Tamil Selvi owing to COVID-19 lockdown in India which also resulted in inter-district ban and due to artists refusing to shoot for the relevant television serials amid COVID-19 fears.{{Cite web|title=Sun TV canceled four TV serials, Vijay and Zee insist 25 episodes|url=https://www.sify.com/movies/sun-tv-canceled-four-tv-serials-vijay-and-zee-insist-25-episodes-news-tamil-uhnhWQfedjfjb.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200713125249/https://www.sify.com/movies/sun-tv-canceled-four-tv-serials-vijay-and-zee-insist-25-episodes-news-tamil-uhnhWQfedjfjb.html|url-status=dead|archive-date=13 July 2020|access-date=2020-07-21|website=Sify|language=en}} Alongside Sun TV, other satellite television channels Star Vijay, Zee Tamil and Colors Tamil also started airing old television serials and movies from 23 March 2020.{{Cite web|last1=Ramesh|first1=Neeraja|date=March 30, 2020|first2=D.|last2=Govardan|title=Tamil TV channels do a DD, re-telecast old serials|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/tamil-tv-channels-do-a-dd-re-telecast-old-serials/articleshow/74887967.cms|access-date=2020-07-21|website=The Times of India|language=en}} Tamil Nadu state government granted permission to start shooting for the television soap operas in the mid of May 2020 (21 May 2020) with allowing only a maximum of 20 cast artists in indoors and cautioned to maintain strict health guidelines during shooting procedures.{{Cite news|date=2020-05-24|title=20 members not enough to shoot a TV serial, Selvamani tells T.N. government|language=en-IN|work=The Hindu|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/20-members-not-enough-to-shoot-a-tv-serial-selvamani-tells-tn-government/article31663723.ece|access-date=2020-07-21|issn=0971-751X}}{{Cite web|title=Tamil Nadu announces further easing of curbs for shooting TV serials|url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/tamil-nadu/2020/may/30/tamil-nadu-announces-further-easing-of-curbs-for-shooting-tv-serials-2150066.html|access-date=2020-07-21|website=The New Indian Express}}{{Cite web|date=2020-05-21|title=Tamil Nadu govt allows TV serials to resume shooting, industry welcomes move|url=https://www.dnaindia.com/india/report-tamil-nadu-govt-allows-tv-serials-to-resume-shooting-industry-welcomes-move-2825579|access-date=2020-07-21|website=DNA India|language=en}} As of 25 May 2020, shooting of television soap operas commenced but government in Tamil Nadu imposed another lockdown between 19 June to 30 June which resulted in yet another halting of television production.{{Cite web|date=2020-06-18|title=Tamil film, television industries to suspend all operations during complete lockdown|url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/regional-movies/tamil-film-television-industries-to-suspend-all-operations-during-complete-lockdown/story-XTX8iNjNKOazz9n68o17RN.html|access-date=2020-07-21|website=Hindustan Times|language=en}}{{Cite news|last=Bharadwaj|first=K. v Aditya|date=2020-05-17|title=Television serials set to resume production from May 25|language=en-IN|work=The Hindu|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/bangalore/television-serials-set-to-resume-production-from-may-25/article31608936.ece|access-date=2020-07-21|issn=0971-751X}}{{Cite news|title=Television channels can now resume shoot, but strict restrictions will prove to be a challenge|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/tv/news/tamil/television-channels-can-now-resume-shoot-but-strict-restrictions-will-prove-to-be-a-challenge/articleshow/75876483.cms|access-date=2020-07-21|website=The Times of India|date=22 May 2020 |language=en}} However, on 7 July 2020, most of the shooting of television soap operas resumed again to telecast all new episodes.{{Cite web|title=TV serial shoot to resume after July 6 in TN?|url=https://www.sify.com/movies/tv-serial-shoot-to-resume-after-july-6-in-tn-news-tamil-uhblseejafhie.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200701165842/https://www.sify.com/movies/tv-serial-shoot-to-resume-after-july-6-in-tn-news-tamil-uhblseejafhie.html|url-status=dead|archive-date=1 July 2020|access-date=2020-07-21|website=Sify|language=en}}{{Cite web|title=Cinema post-production works and TV serial shoot to begin tomorrow!|url=https://www.sify.com/movies/cinema-post-production-works-and-tv-serial-shoot-to-begin-tomorrow-news-tamil-uhhf3Kahgajbd.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200707212712/https://www.sify.com/movies/cinema-post-production-works-and-tv-serial-shoot-to-begin-tomorrow-news-tamil-uhhf3Kahgajbd.html|url-status=dead|archive-date=7 July 2020|access-date=2020-07-21|website=Sify|language=en}}{{Cite news|last=Naig|first=Udhav|date=2020-06-09|title=Filming for television serials resumes|language=en-IN|work=The Hindu|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/filming-for-television-serials-resumes/article31782951.ece|access-date=2020-07-21|issn=0971-751X}}
Sun TV Network revealed that it will telecast new episodes of their current television soap operas such as Kalyana Veedu, Nayagi, Roja and Kanmani with effect from 27 July 2020.{{Cite web|title=Sun TV to relaunch its serials from July 27|url=https://www.sify.com/movies/sun-tv-to-relaunch-its-serials-from-july-27-news-tamil-uhshgKhaifeei.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200718151257/https://www.sify.com/movies/sun-tv-to-relaunch-its-serials-from-july-27-news-tamil-uhshgKhaifeei.html|url-status=dead|archive-date=18 July 2020|access-date=2020-07-21|website=Sify|language=en}} Vijay TV also stated that its prime time television soap operas such as Pandian Stores, Bharathi Kannamma, Ayutha Ezhuthu, Kaatrin Mozhi, Thaenmozhi B.A and Baakiyalakshmi will be telecast with new episodes from 27 July 2020.{{Cite web|title=Vijay TV to relaunch their TV serials from July 27!|url=https://www.sify.com/movies/vijay-tv-to-relaunch-their-tv-serials-from-july-27-news-tamil-uhull4bcdfdah.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200720202456/https://www.sify.com/movies/vijay-tv-to-relaunch-their-tv-serials-from-july-27-news-tamil-uhull4bcdfdah.html|url-status=dead|archive-date=20 July 2020|access-date=2020-07-21|website=Sify|language=en}} Zee Tamil also confirmed that their prime time serials such as Sembaruthi, Rettai Roja, Yaaradi Nee Mohini, Oru Oorla Oru Rajakumari, Gokulathil Seethai, Rajamagal, Endrendrum Punnagai (TV series), Sathya and Neethane Enthan Ponvasantham will also be telecast with new episodes from 27 July 2020.{{Cite web|date=July 21, 2020|title=Zee Tamil resumes shoots, to air fresh content from July 27|url=https://bestmediainfo.com/2020/07/zee-tamil-resumes-shoots-to-air-fresh-content-from-july-27/|access-date=2020-07-21|website=www.bestmediaifo.com}}{{Cite news|title=Fresh episodes of Sembaruthi, Yaaradi Nee Mohini, Rajamagal and other shows to go on-air from Monday|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/tv/news/tamil/fresh-episodes-of-sembaruthi-yaaradi-nee-mohini-rajamagal-and-other-shows-to-go-on-air-from-monday/articleshow/77067946.cms|access-date=2020-07-21|website=The Times of India|date=20 July 2020 |language=en}}{{Cite news|title=Shoots of Tamil TV shows Idhayathai Thirudadhey and Neethane Enthan Ponvasantham begin post covid-19 hiatus|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/tv/news/tamil/shoots-of-tamil-tv-shows-idhayathai-thirudadhey-and-neethane-enthan-ponvasantham-begin-post-covid-19-hiatus/articleshow/76280864.cms|access-date=2020-07-21|website=The Times of India|date=9 June 2020 |language=en}}
Misinformation and discrimination
{{see also|COVID-19 misinformation}}
False information regarding the coronavirus started circulating in the social media platform WhatsApp{{cite web|url=https://www.deccanherald.com/national/south/covid-19-tamil-nadu-teachers-use-whatsapp-to-spread-awareness-815828.html|title=COVID-19: Tamil Nadu teachers use WhatsApp to spread awareness|date=2020-03-20|website=Deccan Herald|language=en|access-date=2020-04-06|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200320222741/https://www.deccanherald.com/national/south/covid-19-tamil-nadu-teachers-use-whatsapp-to-spread-awareness-815828.html|archive-date=20 March 2020|url-status=live}} which led to several arrests in the state.{{cite web|url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/tamil-nadu/2020/apr/03/cops-book-case-against-tamil-nadu-man-for-spreading-rumours-about-coronavirus-on-whatsapp-2125267.html|title=Cops book case against Tamil Nadu man for spreading rumours about coronavirus on WhatsApp|website=The New Indian Express|access-date=2020-04-06|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200406122637/https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/tamil-nadu/2020/apr/03/cops-book-case-against-tamil-nadu-man-for-spreading-rumours-about-coronavirus-on-whatsapp-2125267.html|archive-date=6 April 2020|url-status=live}}{{cite news|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/covid-19-three-tn-youths-arrested-for-spreading-misinformation/articleshow/74675707.cms|title=Covid-19: Three TN youths arrested for spreading misinformation|first=Karal|last=Marx|website=The Times of India|date=17 March 2020 |language=en|access-date=2020-04-06|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200321075014/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/covid-19-three-tn-youths-arrested-for-spreading-misinformation/articleshow/74675707.cms|archive-date=21 March 2020|url-status=live}} A 33-year-old quack was detained for deceiving the local people with a vaccine for COVID-19 in Ranipet.{{cite web|url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/tamil-nadu/2020/mar/31/quack-held-for-selling-fake-coronavirus-vaccine-in-tamil-nadu-2124054.html|title=Quack held for selling fake coronavirus vaccine in Tamil Nadu|website=The New Indian Express|access-date=2020-04-06|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200406122541/https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/tamil-nadu/2020/mar/31/quack-held-for-selling-fake-coronavirus-vaccine-in-tamil-nadu-2124054.html|archive-date=6 April 2020|url-status=live}} The government had warned of legal action against people spreading misinformation on COVID-19.{{cite news|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/coronavirus-tamil-nadu-warns-of-action-against-people-spreading-false-info-on-covid-19/articleshow/74552383.cms|title=Coronavirus in Tamil Nadu: Tamil Nadu warns of action against people spreading false info on Covid-19|last=Narayan|first=Pushpa|website=The Times of India|date=9 March 2020 |language=en|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200311022741/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/coronavirus-tamil-nadu-warns-of-action-against-people-spreading-false-info-on-covid-19/articleshow/74552383.cms|archive-date=11 March 2020|access-date=2020-04-06}} Twitter removed actor Rajinikanth's video citing as misinformation after he claimed a 14-hour stay at home during the Janata Curfew can stop the disease going from "stage-2" to "stage-3".{{cite web|url=https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/regional-cinema/story/twitter-takes-down-rajinikanth-s-janata-curfew-video-for-spreading-misinformation-1658282-2020-03-21|title=Twitter takes down Rajinikanth's Janata Curfew video for spreading misinformation|date=March 21, 2020|website=India Today|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200329165753/https://www.indiatoday.in/movies/regional-cinema/story/twitter-takes-down-rajinikanth-s-janata-curfew-video-for-spreading-misinformation-1658282-2020-03-21|archive-date=29 March 2020}} The police filed a case against the creator of a right wing YouTube channel Maridhas Answers for stoking communal sentiments against Muslims by blaming them of deliberately spreading the disease.{{Cite web|date=2020-04-05|title=TN police book YouTuber Maridhas for communal videos on COVID-19|url=https://www.thenewsminute.com/article/tn-police-book-youtuber-maridhas-communal-videos-covid-19-121918|access-date=2021-01-24|website=The News Minute|language=en}}
The chief minister Edappadi Palaniswami had asked people not to communalise the coronavirus infection. He also asked people to avoid discrimination saying, "people should avoid looking at the infected people and families with disgust".{{cite news|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/dont-communalise-coronavirus-infection-tamil-nadu-cm-says/articleshow/74984047.cms|title=Don't communalise coronavirus infection, Tamil Nadu CM says|last=Mariappan|first=Julie|website=The Times of India|date=4 April 2020 |language=en|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200407112036/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/dont-communalise-coronavirus-infection-tamil-nadu-cm-says/articleshow/74984047.cms|archive-date=7 April 2020|access-date=2020-04-06}} The state police filed cases against functionaries belonging to the Sangh Parivar outfits of Vishva Hindu Parishad and Hindu Munnani in various areas in the state for posting hate messages against a minority community by linking them with the spread of COVID-19 on Social Media.{{Cite web|title=Tamil Nadu: VHP, HM members booked|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/coimbatore/vhp-hm-members-booked/articleshow/75037403.cms|date=Apr 8, 2020|website=The Times of India|language=en|url-status=live|access-date=2 May 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200501105749/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/coimbatore/vhp-hm-members-booked/articleshow/75037403.cms|archive-date=1 May 2020}}
Statistics
{{main|Statistics of COVID-19 pandemic in Tamil Nadu}}
High profile deaths
class="wikitable sortable"
|+High-profile deaths in Tamil Nadu due to COVID-19 !Date !Name !Position |
2 June 2020
|Member of the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly |
25 September 2020
|Indian playback singer |
10 August 2020 |
See also
Notes
{{reflist|group=note}}
References
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External links
{{Commons category|COVID-19 pandemic in Tamil Nadu}}
- [https://nhmtn.maps.arcgis.com/apps/opsdashboard/index.html#/095ad0a1c0254b058fa36b32d1ab1977 COVID-19 dashboard]
- [https://stopcorona.tn.gov.in/ StopCoronaTN] – Department of Health and Family Welfare, Tamil Nadu
- [https://www.mohfw.gov.in/ Minister of Health and Family Welfare] – Ministry of Health and Family Welfare's homepage
- {{YouTube|channel=UCey5XaVBUChYMfsBcpcxeuw}} – National Health Mission Tamil Nadu channel
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{{Health in Tamil Nadu}}
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