CHAPTER 9: A Trend Analysis of the COVID-19 Pandemic in Turkey and in the Indian State of Kerala

Turkey is one of the few countries in the world which effectively handled the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) virus, and this is largely due to a scientific approach with rigorous testing. What was observed regarding the number of active cases in Turkey is a peak sometime around the middle of April 2020 and then a gradual reduction. The success in Turkey can also be attributed to strict enforcement of standard protocols. Turks coming from abroad were quarantined at guest houses for 14 days (for those with no clinical signs), and at designated hospitals in each province (for those with clinical symptoms) until 1 June. Standard protocols such as restrictions on meetings, gatherings and travel were followed. In addition, the country adopted a fast-track mechanism to procure medical supplies, test kits, personal protective equipment, thermal scanners, and other required diagnostic and treatment commodities such as drugs and oxygen, and they were distributed to all possible sites where such supplies were needed. It is important to examine country case studies to understand patterns and similarities which would help to better prevent and manage such crises in the future. But an ongoing epidemiological assessment based on data is extremely important to strengthen the fight against the pandemic. This is extremely useful for developing an integrated global response as an investment for our future.