Almost half of confirmed coronavirus cases on Lanzarote were recorded in Arrecife, while the tourist resorts have been relatively unaffected by the virus so far.
Of the 70 cases recorded so far, 32 (45.7%) were from Arrecife. This figure roughly reflects the relative population of the island’s capital which, at around 63,000 people, accounts for around 42% of the island’s population of 151,000.
The three Lanzarote municipalities containing the island’s main tourist resorts seem to have, so far, suffered lightly from the virus Teguise has recorded five cases, while Tias and Yaiza have seen four cases each.
San Bartolomé (8), Haría (6) and Tinajo (4) complete the figures, while the island of La Graciosa remains officially free of the virus. Six of the cases, including the two first patients recorded on the island, were tourists, or are being treated by private insurers, meaning their residency details are not available.
Nevertheless, there is also an unspecified number of possible cases – people who are suffering from COVID 19 symptoms, or been in contact with a confirmed case, and who are self-isolating at home, but have not been tested yet. The island’s health service is following the progress of these individuals closely by telephone.
No new cases were registered yesterday, and the island has not experienced a death since March 27th.
Leaving lockdown step-by step
Meanwhile, the scientific committee that advises the Canarian Government has suggested that the exit from the lockdown will be undertaken gradually, in stages. Lluis Serra, the spokesman for the committee, said that a commission had been formed to petition the Spanish Health Ministry that the restrictions could be lifted “at a different rhythm” from the rest of the nation.
Serra pointed out it was likely that gatherings in restaurants, bars and other public places were likely to remain prohibited for some time , and also said it was likely that the public may be required to wear face masks in public, to prevent potential infection by asymptomatic sufferers from the virus.
Serra also advised Canarians to exercise “even if your flat is small” and recommended a “Canarian diet with plenty of fruit and vegetables, and classic local specialities such as sancocho” (keep your eyes peeled for our recipe over the following days).
Latest statistics: 6th April , 20:00
Increase on previous day’s figures in brackets.
Total Canarian Cases: 1730 (+81)
Cases on Lanzarote: 70 (+0)
Deaths (Canaries): 88 (+3)
