La Carità_#Covid-19
09.01.2021
Swiss Press Award 21 Video – E – La carità – #Covid-19 Like a Field Hospital
La Carità_#Covid-19
SRG SSR_RSI LA1
2021
Philippe Blanc
Winner 2021
Shortly after the first Covid case in Switzerland, the La Carità Hospital in Locarno was designated as the specialist covid treatment centre for the whole of Ticino. The Locarno facility became reminiscent of a military field hospital. Initially there are only two floors for Covid patients, but as the pandemic progresses, the bed capacity is gradually increased. The report “from the front” concentrates mainly on the experiences of the doctors and nurses during this time, but also those of the patients. Endless shifts, stress, extreme precautionary measures to avoid contagion, and moments of discouragement when the disease seems to be gaining the upper hand. The medical director is certain: “The behaviour of the Ticino people is what’s going to decide what lies in store: if they are completely irresponsible, then things will peak quickly and painfully.”