Bethel’s largest cab company, Kusko Cab, is continuing to transport customers around town, though some drivers have decided to stop working. Company co-owner Naim Shabani says that drivers are being asked to use their own discretion whether to continue driving amid the coronavirus pandemic.
As of March 16, Shabani says that four of Kusko Cab’s 33 drivers have parked their cabs indefinitely.
“As this develops," Shabani said, "we’re going to keep a close eye on it. Any changes would likely be made in phases. A lot of the drivers are older, which unfortunately is the scare of this going forward, but the virus has not been confirmed in the region."
Most Kusko Cab drivers are between ages 40 and 60. The older a person is, the more severe the virus’ symptoms become.
Shabani says that drivers own their vehicles and are supposed to keep their cabs as clean as they can, though there are no current sanitation policies.
For customers, he had this bit of advice: “If you’re not feeling good, stay home.”
Shabani also co-owns another business in Bethel: marijuana store Kusko Kush. He says that the store is keeping regular business hours, and that employees are encouraged to use hand sanitizer after each transaction and to wash their hands often.
“If you’re open for business, if you’re dealing with the public, you’re exposed,” Shabani said. “If we hear the virus is spreading in this region, we might make some changes.”
There are no confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta and one confirmed case in Alaska.
