We continue to know the situation of the coronavirus by the rest of the world through the testimonies of xabieros who reside in each of the different countries. Today we travel to Finland where Lolie Quesada Thénoz, a young xabiera who is studying at the Helsinki Secondary School, lives through an exchange program of the Rotary Club of Jávea.
QUESTION: How is the situation in the country where you live?
ANSWER: The situation here in Finland is not as strong as that of Italy or Spain, there are approximately 1400 cases and 15 deaths. The area where I live, Helsinki, is the most affected and the change in lifestyle and routine is noticeable, but the cases remain, they are not growing too fast.
Q: What measures have been carried out so far? What do you think of these measures and what do you think of how they have been managed?
R: Finland declared a state of emergency on March 16. He took measures to close borders and close all educational centers in the country, at least until mid-May. The entry and exit of Uusimaa (the area that constitutes the capital Helsinki and the cities around it) has also been prohibited. In Uusimaa, stronger measures have been taken, such as the closure of all leisure venues and the reduction of public transport. We are advised to avoid unnecessary physical contact.
Most of the country is already working from home, students have online classes with our usual schedule. Measures have also been taken on Finnish events and festivals. Hockey games are broadcast on television, as the public is not allowed to enter. All concerts and festivals have been canceled, and Vappu (a very important party in which third graders graduate) has been postponed.
Q: Do the people there comply with them? How do they behave in the face of the situation?
R: People here are very aware of the seriousness of the situation, they are all very aware of how it is evolving and they are attentive to the news. I think that Finland has acted very well against the virus, they have controlled it from the beginning, they have not waited for an increase in cases to act. Everyone is respecting the measures imposed.
Q: How are you living there and being away from home?
R: It is clear that it is difficult to quarantine in a family that is not yours, but we all try to do activities together such as board games, cooking and going for a walk so as not to lose morale and that helps a lot.
Q: What do you know about what is happening in Spain? What news do you get?
R: My family and friends tell me what happens in Spain every time we speak. The news here talks about it and a lot of information comes to me on social networks too.
