Last continent free of Covid-19

New Zealanders in Antarctica – the last Covid-19-free continent on Earth – say it’s ‘‘difficult to comprehend the scale’’ of the global pandemic.

About 12 Antarctica New Zealand staff are at Scott Base, preparing for the long, dark winter ahead.

The virus has yet to reach the ice and Rory O’Connor, winter leader, said ‘‘everyone’s thoughts are with their family and friends all around the world’’.

‘‘In some ways it feels abstract and unreal what’s happening outside of Antarctica, it’s difficult to comprehend the scale of what many communities are dealing with,’’ he said.

‘‘As we are now in the winter period our day-to-day routine hasn’t changed, Antarctica remains Covid-19 free. Scott Base already has strict cleaning and handwashing routines in place given the remote nature and close confines of the base and that remains the norm.’’

He said staff were keeping up to date via social media and through communication with Antarctica New Zealand’s Christchurch office.

He said despite being removed from the situation the outbreak was still the main topic of conversation at mealtimes.

‘‘In some ways we are either fortunate or unfortunate. There’s very limited opportunity to leave now because the winter season is upon us. It would be very difficult to leave even if you wanted to.

‘‘Psychologically and mentally we have all been well prepared for the five or six months ahead of us.’’

Air travel between Christchurch and Antarctica is limited at this time of year although one flight is scheduled to take place in April.