Solomon Islands reports first case of COVID-19

Solomon Islands have recorded their first case of COVID-19.

The case was a student who had been repatriated from the Philippines earlier in the week.

He tested positive upon arrival, despite passing three earlier tests before departure while awaiting his flight.

The student is now in isolation with two other close contacts.

When announcing the case, Solomon Islands Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare says the preparedness and response measures the government had worked on implementing over the past eight months had now been activated.

Sogavare indicated there would be no national lockdown for now because he said the government had faith in their systems and the professional health personnel and front-line staff.

The student was one of over 400 nationals stranded in the Philippines after borders were closed.

Sogavare said the repatriation operation would continue.

[Source: Radio NZ]