A whole of the nation approach is needed to continue to fight COVID-19 - Waqainabete

Health Minister, Doctor Ifereimi Waqainabete says a whole of the nation approach is needed to continue to keep the COVID-19 cases at a minimum amount, and Fiji still has 5 confirmed cases with no new cases despite 357 tests.

Doctor Waqainabete says this is a test for Fiji to keep the confirmed cases down. He says having no new cases for the last 6 days will not be of any help if people in the country do not follow the preventative measures.

Doctor Waqainabete also says people have to play their part in combating COVID-19.

He reiterates the Prime Minister’s message to break the stigma around those who are seeking care.

At Nadi side of Lautoka border we were briefed by Police on operations to limit people but allow only essential goods like food to pass. #TogetherWeCan thank you @fiji_force pic.twitter.com/0ivig4XGx0

— Dr I Waqainabete (@Nadokoulu) March 31, 2020

The Health Minister says these are already scary times, and it may be intimidating to visit our health centres particularly the new fever clinics. But anyone who has a fever, even if they do not have a recent travel history, should visit one of the fever clinics, and encourage your loved ones and neighbours to do the same.

The Prime Minister has also said that this is particularly important as Fiji enters the flu season, a virus that shares many of the symptoms of COVID-19.

Great to meet our staff at Nadi hospital this avo and with Ministers Seruiratu / Usamate thank them for their efforts towards COVID19. #TogetherWeCan pic.twitter.com/I8VixcMHdk

— Dr I Waqainabete (@Nadokoulu) March 31, 2020

The Health Minister says that there is no shame in being sick. He says there is no shame in having the flu, a fever, or coronavirus. Doctor Waqainabete says by seeking treatment for your sickness, and by reporting your symptoms as soon as they develop, you are being incredibly responsible, and you are looking out for more than yourself; you’re taking care of those around you, and you’re taking care of those you love. Doctor Waqainabete says the numbers will not sky-rocket in Fiji if people do the right thing.

At Nadi side of Lautoka border we were briefed by Police on operations to limit people but allow only essential goods like food to pass. #TogetherWeCan thank you @fiji_force pic.twitter.com/0ivig4XGx0

— Dr I Waqainabete (@Nadokoulu) March 31, 2020