Do not let your guard down now as we may have to follow the COVID safe protocols like masking and physical distancing for a long time even after we are fully vaccinated – Dr Sahukhan

The Head of Health Protection, Doctor Aalisha Sahukhan stresses that people should still follow the COVID safe protocols and we may continue to wear masks and adhere to the 2 metres physical distancing rule for a long time even after people are fully vaccinated.

With many more people out and about, Doctor Sahukhan says their advice remains which is to wear a mask that covers your mouth and nose when you leave your home, avoid crowds, avoid contained spaces with poor ventilation and avoid contact outside your household.

She says although the vaccine largely reduces the risk of severe disease, hospitalisation and death, it is not the only layer of protection.

She says the issue here is regarding the unvaccinated people as they would be the ones that are highly vulnerable.

Police say the Prime Minister and the Ministry of Health have been very clear on the need for Fijians to continue adhering to COVID safe measures as the change in curfew does not mean that everything is back to normal nor should people be planning to meet for any form of social gatherings as we are still battling the virus on the two main islands and now in the maritime islands.

They say the Ministry of Health has stated that there is still a persistent risk and therefore no one should take the COVID-19 safe measures lightly and should report any breach.

You are requested to call Police if you see any COVID-19 breaches.