The coronavirus has been detected in Tenerife, and seven Icelanders have been quarantined at the H10 Costa Adeje Palace hotel there. This occurred after an Italian doctor who was staying at the hotel tested positive for the virus.
Epidemiologist Þórolfur Guðnason appeared on news discussion show Kastljós on RÚV last night to discuss the matter. He said that it is natural for people to be frightened in light of the fact that the virus has been detected in places where Icelanders are traveling. “All of are contingency plans are to contain this epidemic as soon as possible and stop its spread,” Þórolfur said.
He also said that it is difficult to predict what the future holds because of how rapidly the virus is spreading. However, he is confident that the disease will not come to Iceland. He also pointed out that 80% of those who contract the virus do not face severe symptoms, and it is primarily the elderly and those with weakened immune systems who are most at risk of fatality. “The figures show that 2-3 percent of those who get the virus pass away, and 5 percent get seriously ill to the point where they need to go to the intensive care unit.”
It is also worth keeping in mind that it is very rare for people to become infected in flight, due to the air pressure of the cabin and air purification devices. Even so, he strongly advised the Icelanders currently quarantined due to the coronavirus in Tenerife to stay at home when they return to the country. And we think that is excellent advice. Get some rest, and catch up on your Netflix queue.
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