For now, do not gather and do not travel unless it is essential – Bainimarama

Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama says for now, do not gather and do not travel unless it is essential as they have become aware of a new border quarantine case that could pose a risk of transmission beyond the border.

The Prime Minister says they were made aware of the case yesterday.

Bainimarama says this requires immediate steps from everyone to mitigate.

He stresses large gatherings, especially, are not safe.

The Prime Minister says he cannot stress enough how important it is that people adhere to the habits of handwashing and physical distancing.

He says this Bainimarama has revealed that this case of the virus has been detected during a routine test of a member of the security forces working within a quarantine facility.

He says they know he contracted the virus anytime from one to six days prior and that he interacted with other daytime staff in the quarantine facility during that time.

Bainimarama further says that means there may have been some exposure outside of the facility that has to be managed.

He says last night, they began entering into quarantine staff who were working in the facility during the potential window for transmission and also members of their households.

Bainimarama further says the soldier has received his first dose of a COVID-19 vaccine and that means his risk of severe infection is reduced and it is likely his risk of transmission was lower.

The Prime Minister stresses that doesn’t mean we can afford to take any chances particularly given the rise of new and more contagious variants of COVID-19 around the world.

The Prime Minister says if the soldier hadn’t received that first dose, the risk to him and others would have been much higher.

Bainimarama also says as they continue to identify other potential contacts tied to this case.

He says if you are called by the Ministry of Health and Medical Services teams as a potential contact, please come forward immediately.

Bainimarama adds they have been exploring the relaxation of some of remaining health restrictions, including the capacity of large public events and the curfew hours, in particular as vaccines have been administered.

The Prime Minister adds unfortunately, that will have to wait until they are certain this case does not pose a risk to the public.

He further says in fact, people should prepare for these measures to become more stringent if they find there has been transmission to the public.