As you might have seen, there is little (if anything) being reported about the coronavirus in Nicaragua. And if you have seen anything, it has most likely been about the absence of leadership and next to no preventative measures being implemented by the government.
Nicaraguan life and culture is anything but distant. Typical greetings include handshakes, hugs, and kisses even among parties meeting for the very first time. The grand majority relies on public transportation both in and around their community, as well as local and intercity travel for everyday work, school, and family visitation. Most churches gather 5-6 times per week in a single confined space. During a meeting or service, a single cup is shared with a pitcher of water for all present and washing hands means running them under cold water for 5-6 seconds, if at all.
Nicaragua reported its first official positive case on March 18, and in one months time, there are only 9 confirmed cases and one death. But, everyone knows these figures are inaccurate with over 600 cases in our northern bordering countries Honduras & El Salvador. Our southern neighbors Costa Rica & Panama have confirmed more than 4,400 cases. And while all of these countries have been practicing isolation and social distancing, Nicaragua is being directed to live life as normal, participate in marches and processions..
The most useful news source out of Nicaragua continues to be the newspaper La Prensa. They courageously continue to print “real news”. Here’s the latest in regard to President Daniel Ortega and the 25 minute interview he gave after having not been seen or heard from for over a month.
Today Nicaragua provides an up-to-date, apparently accurate alternative English language source of news.