Preparedness is Essential for Western Pacific Islands during the COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract

To clarify the pandemic status in Western Pacific countries or territories. Methods: The WHO'sdaily situation reports of COVID-19 were reviewed from January 20, 2020, to March 24, 2020. Changesin the infections, deaths, and the case fatality rate (CFR) in Western Pacific countries or territories were counted. Results: As of March 24, a total of 17 countries or territories had reported thepresence of COVID-19 in the Western Pacific Region, 96,580 people have been infected and a total of3502 deaths. Fifty-three percent (9/17) of these countries or territories had their first case within 2 wk since the WHO's first report, most are China's neighbors with a large and dense population.No other country or territory in this region reported a new infection from January 30 to February 28. However, 8 (47.0%) countries or territories have reported the first cases in 3 wk since February28, almost all are islands. Many countries maintained a small number of infections for a long time after the first report, but a rapid increase occurred later. Deaths occurred in 8 countries with a total CFR of 3.63%, and the CFR varies widely, from 0.39% (Singapore) to 7.14% (Philippines). Conclusions: The regional spread of COVID-19 urgently requires an aggressive preparedness for the Western Pacific Islands.