(ANSA) - ROME, JUL 27 - The small state of Micronesia, in the Pacific, has lost the status of one of the few countries exempt from Covid, after the confirmation of the first outbreak following some cases reported last week.
This is reported by various media.
Aside from a few isolated incidents, the Federated States of Micronesia had managed to avoid the coronavirus for two and a half years thanks to their location about 1,000 miles (1,600 kilometers) north of Papua New Guinea.
That is until two students tested positive after arriving on the island of Kosrae from Pohnpei.
In a week, cases have increased to more than 2,072 recorded yesterday, causing alarm in the Pacific island nation, which has a population of approximately 130,000.
Eight people were hospitalized, while an elderly person died of the consequences related to the virus.
Many lawmakers and senior officials have contracted the disease, including Vice President Yosiwo George, who is hospitalized although his condition is of no concern.
The health authority discouraged gatherings and recommended wearing masks at all times, but said "all public services will remain open."
(HANDLE).