Rise in COVID cases

THE Ministry of Health and Medical Services has recorded 56 new cases of COVID-19 as at December 17.

In a statement, the ministry said of the 56 new cases recorded, 39 cases were recorded in the Central Division; 15 cases in the Western Division; 1 case in the Northern Division with nil cases in the Eastern Division.

“Correspondingly, the Ministry of Health and Medical Services is focusing on implementing COVID safe measures around those vulnerable to the severe effects of COVID-19,” the statement read.

“This includes escalating measures in hospitals, old people’s homes and facilities catering for disabled persons.

“As such we expect to escalate screening protocols and masking for staff, patients and visitors.”

Health Ministry emphasised that Fijians need to remain vigilant, maintain community-wide adoption of COVID safe measures where appropriate and maintain the impetus for immunisation.

“This is the only means to reduce the disease spread and protect those in the community who are less able to fend for themselves.”