Could dialects fall victim to coronavirus?

 Dr Annamaria Paolino is a lecturer at the School of Education Edith Cowan University in Western Australia.

Dr Paolino says COVID-19 could have a devastating impact on endangered languages. Source: Aaron Fernandes/SBS News

In Italy, like in other countries, most COVID-19 victims are elderly. It is not only a devastating loss of human life. Dr Annamaria Paolino, Australian-born of Italian origins, is afraid this might have a very damaging impact on several local languages, including some Italian dialects.


People in Australia must stay at least 1.5 metres away from others. Check your state’s restrictions on gathering limits.

Testing for coronavirus is now widely available across Australia. If you are experiencing cold or flu symptoms, arrange a test by calling your doctor or contact the Coronavirus Health Information Hotline on 1800 020 080.

The federal government's coronavirus tracing app COVIDSafe is available for download from your phone's app store.

SBS is committed to informing Australia’s diverse communities about the latest COVID-19 developments. News and information is available in 63 languages at sbs.com.au/coronavirus





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