While the whole world was enveloped by the coronavirus and its rapid spread, Antarctica remained fairly untouched by it. But this remote land of snow has come under the grip of the virus recently.
Around 58 people have tested positive for COVID-19. These individuals were either stationed at the military bases at Antarctica, or were visiting the continent.
Reports say that 36 people from Chile at the Gen. Bernardo O&rsquoHiggins Riquelme Antarctic base are positive.
They have been sent to Punta Arenas, Chile to be quarantined.
Another 21 individuals on the Chilean navy&rsquos Sergeant Aldea supply ship are also infected with the virus.
A ship carrying supplies had docked here. The members aboard the ship have now been quarantined.
All major research projects (ice sheet information, weather data, and wildlife stats) have come to a halt.
The rate of tourism in Antarctica had surged since February 2020, posing an active threat to the fragile state of the continent, a situation made worse by the lack of an individual government who could be held responsible for the continent.