Pacific island countries would be decimated by an outbreak of COVID-19, a new study has found, highlighting the need to protect Australia's neighbours from the global pandemic | Gallo_Ways
Pacific island countries would be decimated by an outbreak of COVID-19, a new study has found, highlighting the need to protect Australia's neighbours from the global pandemic., forcing the island nation to relax social distancing measures and heightening fears the relief operation could bring the virus to the country.Alex Ellinghausen
PNG is most at risk from a COVID-19 outbreak because of its lack of access to healthcare, existing health conditions and communications capacity.The country was given an overall risk rating of 5.7, compared to Australia on 1.4 and New Zealand on 1.1. "Some of our neighbours already have confirmed cases in the thousands, while others are bracing for a future nightmare scenario," Mr Walton said."This pandemic and its economic repercussions are going to hit the world's poorest the hardest, and many of these people are in our own corner of the world."
The cyclone has destroyed houses and brought down telecommunications in Vanuatu's Sana province. The country's second largest city, Luganville, has been one of the hardest hit, with the roof of the council building ripped off, according to photos posted on social media.Mr Walton said the "rule book is basically out the window" when dealing with the parallel challenges of COVID-19 and the cyclone.
Australia Latest News, Australia Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
How to minimise risk of catching COVID-19 at the supermarketSome simple steps when undertaking the number one reason for leaving the home right now - grocery shopping | sarzberry
Read more »
How to minimise risk of catching COVID-19 at the supermarketYou don't need to worry about wearing gloves or wiping down trolleys in the supermarket. You just need to follow these simple steps
Read more »
Warning of 'explosive resurgence' of COVID-19 if social controls relaxedAustralians are at risk from a new surge of coronavirus deaths if controls imposed to fight the pandemic are relaxed, top scientific advisers have warned.
Read more »
Adelaide woman dies after contracting COVID-19 from Ruby Princess cruise shipA 62-year-old woman becomes the second person to die from coronavirus in South Australia, health authorities have confirmed.
Read more »
Healthcare industry can't drop the ball on COVID-19: CSL executiveResearch on coronavirus would need to be sustained even after the pandemic ends, according to ASX-listed biotech giant CSL's chief medical officer.
Read more »
'Mind your manners': New South Wales pharmacist spat on and punched in COVID-19 stressA NSW pharmacist urges customers to mind their manners and respect staff as stress boils over due to the coronavirus crisis.
Read more »