[ad_1]
The president of the Valais government, Christophe Darbellay (CVP), explains why there is now a partial blockade in his canton. He believes that other cantons could follow suit.
Christophe Darbellay, President of the Valais Council of State and former President of CVP Switzerland.
Photo: Laurent Gilliéron (Keystone)
Mr Darbellay, around every 100 people in Valais have been infected with the coronavirus in the last two weeks. How could the situation derail like this?
That is hard to say. We had it under control for a long time. Other cantons that had a low number of cases in the first wave have now suddenly become hotspots – Schwyz or Appenzell Innerrhoden, for example. Perhaps the geographical proximity to Vaud and Geneva, which have been badly affected for many weeks, also played a role for us. Now, suddenly, we are the canton most affected by the pandemic.
Where did most of the infections occur?
We can only partially trace the infection chains. There were many infections in families and in private life. 14 nursing homes are also affected, despite strict protection concepts. For this reason, we now prohibit visits to the homes and hospitals of the elderly.
It also takes radical measures in other ways: it closes museums, indoor pools and nightclubs, bans team sports, bans gatherings of more than ten people, and much more.
Yes, we mainly focus on clubs and free time (here is an overview of all the new measures in Valais). With things that beautify life but are not essential. That hurts. But maybe we can at least prevent the worst from happening. The situation is very serious. Only drastic and effective measures will help.
What is the worst thing you fear?
That the hospitals would be completely at his feet in two or three weeks. If we don’t all act now, the total block will come later.
Aren’t your hospitals already on edge?
You are currently in control of the situation. But employees are under enormous human, psychological and physical pressure. You had to put on an incredible performance in the last few months. That is why they have my highest respect.
Winter tourism is extremely important to its economy. Will you be able to ski in Valais this winter?
Destinations are still open. If we act decisively now, we have a chance to save the winter season, even if you will most likely have to do without après-ski this year. There will probably be fewer foreign tourists than normal. But we are looking forward to meeting the Swiss who would otherwise have to spend the whole winter in high fog.
Should other cantons follow the example of Valais and also have a partial blockade?
I don’t want to give advice. But I suppose the Valais situation will spread. Then tougher measures will also be taken elsewhere.
Does the population support the measures?
The people of Valais are strong and can take a lot. We are all challenged now, each and every one of us.
