33-year-old Nirmala Solanki* of Bajana village in Surendranagar district contracted the coronavirus five days after her husband tested positive for COVID-19. She had to prepare his meals, give him medication on time, wash his clothes and his utensils. She could not follow the COVID-19 advisory of avoiding contact with articles used by the patient.

The couple shifted to a separate house owned by the family. Nirmala Solanki continued to look after her husband, cook, clean and wash their clothes. While her husband could rest and recuperate, she had no such choice. Her marital family was of no support.

This is the story of countless rural women who test positive for COVID-19, or care for infected family members. Even when they have the symptoms, they postpone testing as long as possible. They drink hot water, herbal drinks, take medicine and continue with their chores. Since they are the primary caregivers, the family does not encourage testing…

Kathuria, P. (2021). Why we need a gender-sensitive pandemic management. Village Square.