When it comes to Colorado’s exclusive alpine village of Aspen, there’s always an Australian angle. On the steps of Ajax Tavern, even coronavirus has an Aussie accent.

The most salubrious town in the Rockies has been awaiting the return of “presumptive positive” results from the Centers from Disease Control in Atlanta on 13 visiting Australians. All are thumb-twiddling in isolation – and certainly not skiing, after its four mountains were closed on Sunday by order of Colorado’s Governor.