National Federation Party Leader Professor Biman Prasad says more than 1,100 people have died from either COVID-19 or COVID positive patients have died from pre-existing medical conditions and the scale of this tragedy must serve as a constant reminder to all of us to be on our guard.
As a number of COVID related restrictions have been eased, Professor Prasad says we must all be cautious given what is happening in other countries.
He further says our elderly population, those with underlying medical conditions as well as unvaccinated children are highly vulnerable.
Professor Prasad adds the government has decided that we must live with the virus and is hoping the high vaccination rate will prove to be an effective deterrent to case numbers spiraling upwards again.
He says the government must now shift its focus on improving and upgrading our public hospitals and medical facilities through the pumping of resources.
Professor Prasad also says they are sure that our Pacific neighbours and donor partners will be willing to assist the government in undertaking massive upgrades and equipping of the hospitals to ensure adequate care for our people as well as to be prepared for medical emergencies arising out of any further spike in COVID cases.
He adds they reiterate the need to practice COVID-safe measures as life returns to normality and the economy re-opens.
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