Q: Mauritius responded well to the coronavirus pandemic, locking down early and implementing strict restrictions. This strategy clearly paid off: Mauritius has recorded fewer than 350 cases of Covid-19, and only ten deaths. What was the experience of coronavirus like in Mauritius, and have you been proud of the government and population’s reaction?
A: It is the responsiveness of the Mauritian authorities and the effectiveness of the country’s health system that are the core reasons behind our low death rate. On 22 January, the Government of Mauritius started screening passengers on arrival at its airport, introducing body-temperature checks and separation of at-risk passengers a week later. It also set up a fast-track system for suspected cases to minimize contact with other passengers and staff, all before the World Health Organization (WHO) had declared a global health emergency.
The Prime Minister of Mauritius has been addressing the nation regularly while key stakeholders, including ministers and high officials from the ministries of health, commerce and the police, hold daily press conferences to provide the public with the latest COVID-19 statistics as well as keep them informed on the measures being taken.
The local community has really banded together to respect the rules, follow guidelines and forward plan for the destination to reopen and we are very proud of how we have, and continue to, overcome this challenging period in our history.