Last Updated on March 16, 2020
Today, Greenland reported its first case of the deadly coronavirus as several countries begin locking down their borders to prevent further spread of the infection.
The patient, reportedly living in the Danish autonomous territory’s capital, Nuuk, has self-isolated at home as the island’s health service said, “The first case of the new coronavirus has now been confirmed in Greenland,” in a local government statement, according to the Straits Times.
Several precautions have been taken in an effort to prevent the spread of the Covid-19 which has begun to reach pandemic levels.
Flights off the island and domestic flights were advised to be limited to essential trips only, and tourists returning from infected areas were advised to self-isolate for two weeks.
Greenland followed Denmark’s example in closing its borders to tourists.
Large gatherings above 100 participants were also discouraged as many other countries take similar measures.
Speaking at a press conference, Greenland’s Prime Minister Kim Kielsen, reportedly said: “Preparations have been initiated to cope with the new situation. It is important that citizens follow our recommendations now that the infection has reached our country.”
On Monday, Denmark reported a total of 909 confirmed coronavirus cases including one death.
The Faroe Islands, an autonomous Danish territory, reported eleven cases as the Covid-19 reaches the furthest expanses.
Over 170,000 coronavirus cases have been reported worldwide with 6,500 deaths–most of whom have been elderly patients and people with pre-existing conditions.
Today, the first coronavirus vaccine was tested, using a protein similar to the Covid-19 to observe how the body reacts and to ensure that it is safe for being used on a global scale.
