Sikkim: 68 monks test COVID-19 positive in Lingdum monastery

GANGTOK: Just when COVID-19 spread in monks in Sikkim was seen to be contained, the spread has once again gripped Lingdum monastery in Ranka near Gangtok.

A total of 68 monks were tested on Monday. They have now been contained in the Gymnasium Hall in Paljor Stadium, Gangtok.

All 68 monks are below the age of 18 years with the youngest being a 7-year-old.

Earlier in May, over 400 monks had tested positive in Sikkim, most of whom were from Rumtek monastery and Nyingma institute, which are in close proximity with Lingdum Monastery.

There were a few cases recorded then from Lingdum Monastery as well.

Also Read: Why are so many monks testing COVID positive in Sikkim?

Health department source informed the reason for spread has to be from one of the monks venturing out and bringing the virus back to the monastery. “We have been long arguing how the hygiene and social distancing goes for a toss in monasteries where more than 100 monks stay in dormitories. Despite so much of information being spread on social distancing, the monasteries have time and again become a hotspot for COVID 19 spread,” the source added.