Steps and measures put in place for second wave of COVID-19 are correct however we have to be more stringent – Dr. Munshi

The President of the Fiji Medical Association, Doctor Basharat Munshi says the steps and measures put in place for the second wave of COVID-19 are correct however we have to be more stringent as the Delta variant is much more infectious compared to the Alpha variant.

The Association is currently having a conference in Nadi and discussions are taking place on the lessons learnt from the second wave.

Doctor Munshi says since the Delta variant is more infectious, even a small lapse in concentration at a border quarantine facility can have the ability to spread an outbreak in an unvaccinated population.

He says this was the biggest lesson we learnt with the Delta variant.

Doctor Munshi says going forward, strict adherence to border quarantine is required as that is the first line of security.

He says they have also learnt it is also important that staff get psychological support and enough rest to reduce any margin of error.

Doctor Munshi says vaccination is key and the higher the proportion of vaccinated population, the more protected we will be.

Doctor Munshi says going forward, people who are not vaccinated will find it increasingly hard to access services that are enjoyed by majority of the population.