Mongolia has few coronavirus cases – and some say it’s all thanks to Genghis Khan
- The country has had some 200 infections – all imported – and no one has died from the disease
- Fresh air, a diet of free-range milk and meat, plus Genghis Khan’s fighting spirit are cited as the reasons why Mongolia has come up tops
Many Mongolians attribute this low infection rate to several factors: clean air, and a steady diet of natural, free-range meat and milk.
They also believe that generations of constant work, riding horses, herding sheep, as well as surviving dramatic temperature swings, from -60 to 45 degrees Celsius, have made them heartier and more resistant to disease.
Perhaps most importantly, there is the legacy of Genghis Khan, which Mongolians believe has kept them safe.
A historian, a shaman, a monk, and a medical doctor all referenced Genghis Khan while explaining why they believe Mongolia has been so successful in combating the coronavirus pandemic.
Enkh-Ouyn Byambadorj, a shaman, receives visitors in a large room, adorned with horse hair, talismans and a shrine to Genghis Khan.
