Why Italy?
Italy is second to China in reported coronavirus cases.
Why is that so?
I have seen reports that state that Italy has the oldest population in Europe. Therefore, it is implied, Italy’s population would be more susceptible (lesser immune systems) to COVID-19 and get the virus easier.
That thinking seems to go like this: The virus was around, took note of Italy’s aging population, and went to work there. It was a random country choice. Countries with younger populations would be less vulnerable to an outbreak of the virus.
Makes sense but then the facts get in the way.
I saw information today that reveals a significant connection between Italy to China.
The northern part of Italy has been the hardest hit by the coronavirus. How is that area connected to China?
The fashion/garment industry is huge in that region. Think Prada & Gucci. China has long presented inexpensive manufacturing options to those businesses.
Some of the work for that industry has been done by Italian companies that have used inexpensive labor found mainly in Wuhan, China.
Chinese workers have also moved from China to northern Italy to work in the fashion/garment industry. There are an estimated 100,000 Chinese citizens working in Italian factories. More than 300,000 Chinese now live in Italy.
Until recently, end of January, there were direct flights from Italy to Wuhan.
I may not have this exactly right, but this looks to me like plenty of interaction between the area in China where the virus started and the place in Europe where it is the worst.
Portraying COVID-19 as a virus that randomly infects large areas out of nowhere may not be true. Cause and effect still are in play.
Certainly, we need to be careful and certainly we need to be wise.
Should northern Italy be under virtual house arrest? No question.
Should we? No longer as certain.
McClelland Miscellanea 