We have watched from this region with increasing concern as the virus has spread further and further around the globe. But for a time anyway, the Pacific’s relative isolation appeared to be working to its advantage. But in today's interconnected world nowhere is really isolated for long.
A few days ago news arrived that a confirmed case appeared in French Polynesia, then cases were confirmed in New Caledonia. Then yesterday a case was confirmed here in Fiji. The case in Fiji is an airline attendant, who had traveled to San Francisco and Auckland. Measures have been taken around the airports area, but of course it means that anyone on that flight or going through customs could have contracted it and taken it anywhere in the country.
Restrictions on gatherings of more than 20 people are now in place. Schools in the West (where the main airport is) are closed and pretty much all meetings of any sort have been cancelled.
The community here did engage in a bit of stockup buying, grocery stores and gas stations were packed yesterday, but so far at least no sign of any panic or desperation. This country went through a coup that shut everything down not that long ago, so there is some experience and little danger of shortages. Other smaller islands like Niue and Tuvalu who rely heavily on imports will have a rougher time as transport lines are reduced.
With all the major airports hubs in the region starting some serious or total (Australia) international travel bans, it means us expats are a bit stranded. Canada’s PM is calling Canadians home, but as the old joke goes- you can’t get there from here.
We have elderly parents living in Italy and Canada, but it is not wise or practical to return. Even if we could do it, seems like the best way to get COVID-19 at this point would be to go on a long trip through several major international airports. Thank goodness for Skype and Facetime.
Actions here are begin taken early, a lesson learned from watching others But if there is a major break out in this region it will be quite bad. The Pacific has a large elderly population and is the region with the highest rates of non-communicable diseases in the world. It’s also, like Italy, a very communal sharing place. Combine that with a limited number of hospital beds financially struggling health care systems and you have a recipe for potential disaster.
If you are planning a trip to the Pacific, for an anniversary, wedding, whatever- please cancel it. It will, quite literally, save lives.
Bula! And remember to wash your hands folks...