How much effect has the swine flu had on the Argentine economy?”
Authorities in Argentina’s capital and Buenos Aires province declared health emergencies and extended school vacations Tuesday as the nation’s swine flu death toll surged to 35. Together the areas comprise almost half of Argentina’s population, and they joined four other provinces that have already declared health emergencies in a nation that in Latin America is topped only by Mexico in number of swine flu deaths. Health authorities have warned that while the swine flu peak has passed in Mexico, the Southern Hemisphere is at risk as it heads deeper into its winter flu season. Buenos Aires Mayor Mauricio Macri said Tuesday that the capital would declare a health emergency but that restaurants, shopping centers, public transportation and movie theaters would remain open. A statement from Macri’s office noted that the emergency decree allows the mayor to change school vacation dates without legislative approval. It also allows him to unilaterally suspend sports and entertainment activitie
Normally the winter period in July is the most profitable time of year for children’s theatre companies and cinema owners in Argentina. But swine flu has changed everything this year. Although school holidays were extended by a month because of swine flu, most parents have followed the advice of the authorities and kept their children at home, well away from crowded places. The government has not ordered the closure of big public places, but people have nevertheless rushed to cancel tickets for sporting and cultural events. They are worried about the H1N1 virus, which has led to some 65 deaths in South America’s second-largest country. For the first time since 1918, the famous Corrientes Avenue in Buenos Aires – Argentina’s equivalent of Broadway – was set to be dark for 10 days, following the suspension of shows. Curtain-closer It is estimated that ticket sales have dropped by 80%. The 9 July public holiday to commemorate independence has been extended by the government, which has dec
It is estimated that ticket sales have dropped by 80%. The 9 July public holiday to commemorate independence has been extended by the government, which has decreed Friday “health day off”. The authorities have asked people not to travel during the long weekend and recommended that they stay at home. Restaurants are also deserted Restaurants are also deserted and depend more on home delivery People are not only staying away from theatres and cinemas but also shopping centres, restaurants, buses, trains and work. Local media have estimated that hundreds of millions of dollars have been lost, but according to economists, the true impact cannot be measured until the extent of swine flu across the country is established.
