Several cases of Covid-19 have been reported within a Chilean scientific base in Antarctica. The new SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus is therefore officially present on all continents of the Earth.
It is not known where or when the novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 actually appeared. On the other hand, we know that its spread has been meteoric, affecting the entire planet so far…. except Antarctica. But it was only a matter of time before the white continent was also affected.
The first cases of Covid-19 have indeed just been reported within the O'Higgins research base in Chile, located near the northernmost tip of the Antarctic Peninsula. In total, 36 people would be affected . Among them are more than two dozen members of the Chilean military, as well as ten civilian maintenance contractors, according to Newsweek.
These 36 people have since been evacuated to Punta Arenas, in southern Chile, where they have been placed in quarantine. Last I heard, all are doing well. In the meantime, a new team has been sent to the scene. Naturally, the entire base had been disinfected beforehand, and all members of this new group tested negative and then placed in quarantine before their arrival.
The chances of a larger outbreak breaking out on the mainland seem fairly low, given the isolated nature of the research stations. However, let's not forget that if no permanent residents live there, Antarctica welcomes between 1,000 and 5,000 individuals each year (scientists and support staff). The population generally peaks during the summer months, between October and February. This is why it was important to curb this epidemic as soon as possible.
Speaking to Australia's ABC channel, Hanne Nielsen of the University of Tasmania described the potential impacts of such a virus on that continent. According to her, an epidemic could affect all human activities, "from logistics to high-level decision-making in the countries of origin. She also reminds that hospitals and other health facilities are not within reach, which further increases the risks. Finally, she points out that the virus could affect local wildlife if researchers come into contact with other local species.
Another potentially worrying point is that of tourism. Some tour operators are planning to open reservations for the 2021/2022 season. And for good reason, the next total solar eclipse, on December 4, 2021, will only be visible from Antarctica.
