Cyprus – the small country in the Mediterranean taking huge strides and achieving large gains in combating COVID-19.

The government of the Republic of Cyprus, reacted promptly, effectively, and with a dramatic, and quite possibly one of the harshest lockdowns in the world in order to combat COVID -19.

A mere 7 weeks after the initial case (March 7th), Cyprus can boast infections of less than 1000, and with only 13 deaths. The curve of infections is flattening, and the government is looking optimistically to relaxing the lockdown measures imposed on the small population (880,000). This is a huge success for the government and population of Cyprus.

President Anastasiades, credits this low infection and mortality rate to listening to their scientific advisors from the initial onset of infection and all the lockdown decisions have been based on scientific advice.

Globally many governments have imposed lockdowns, but Cyprus’s lockdown has been one of the strictest. Trips outside the home are limited to once per day on an approval scheme, with strict penalties for offenders, closure of the majority of retail and businesses, with the exception of supermarkets and pharmacies, as well as government funding schemes to help stabilize the economy and a strict nighttime curfew to limit possible transmission rates.

Many countries should view Cyprus’s reaction to this current pandemic and take notice.  The small Island is winning its fight against COVID -19.