Coronavirus in Iceland – this is how the country is being affected

I can see that the readership of my Iceland focused travel magazine has dropped sharply. Nobody is thinking about travel or vacations, although one might argue that it might be good for the soul. I can see that on social media, a lot of people are asking about how things are in Iceland. The only thing I have to offer is my own experience of Coronavirus in Iceland.

The Coronavirus crisis is being well handled in Iceland

The Icelandic government has handled the situation well. Professionals are in charge of the reaction and strategy. Nobody can doubt the importance of employing science and calm professionalism. The framework of a robust state-funded healthcare system is also vital. The following officials have daily press conferences:

• Director of Health
• Chief Epidemiologist
• Chief Superintendent of Police

Their calm manner and their delivery of the facts have given them deserved celebrity status. Their goal is clear, slow the virus down, protect vulnerable people and enabling the health system to cope.

The best information about Coronavirus – Covid 19 – in Iceland

This website. It is by far the best information source available. Follow the advice there.

We are doing well

Coronavirus has not affected me much. My company, Meniga, is a software company. It is easy to work from home or from any place with an internet connection. I am doing that for the next weeks. We worry about our customers who live in hard-hit countries such as Italy. But we also notice their professionalism and resilience. They make all projects run despite the situation. It is inspiring. Countries and workplaces many come out of this more robust and focused than before.

My running and biking can go on. And from what I understand, my beloved Bootcamp gym is taking steps to adjust to the situation. I will be able to continue to lag elegantly behind the people who work out there.

Gathering ban

The Icelandic government has imposed a four-week gathering ban. This precludes groups from over 100 people to congregate. This affects Iceland’s active cultural scene. My wife is a classical singer. Her performance of Verdi Requiem has been postponed until October. My daughter studies at Junior College and her school are now focusing on remote teaching. Iceland’s online infrastructure is proving to be essential to keep everything going.

This shall pass

This crisis, like every other crisis, shall pass. Until then, keep calm and carry on. And wash your hands and keep your spirits up.