No COVID-19 JN.1 sub-variant found in Fiji, but Health Ministry is taking proactive measures

The Ministry of Health says it has not diagnosed the COVID-19 JN.1 sub-variant from the COVID cases seen in the country to date, however, they are taking proactive measures to ensure that the public remain vigilant and take appropriate measures to protect themselves and those around them.

The Ministry in collaboration with the World Health Organization is closely monitoring the emergence of the JN.1 sub-variant as reported in other countries.

While there is currently no evidence to suggest there is increased transmissibility or severity of disease caused by the JN.1 variant compared to other circulating variants, the Ministry has scaled up surveillance through their EWARS syndromic surveillance system, and through laboratory investigations at the Fiji Centre for Disease Control and at major hospitals around the country.

They say as such, testing kits have been distributed to the CDC labs in Nadi, Suva, and all Divisional Hospitals around the country to boost the testing for suspected COVID cases presenting at the hospitals.

While cases of COVID-19 continue to be seen around the country to date, no rise in cases or admissions have been recorded.

The Health Minister is advising members of the public to take note of the following COVID-safe measures that will protect them from acquiring the disease, and suffering from severe COVID-19 disease.

The Ministry says people still need to wash their hands frequently with soap and water or use an alcohol-based sanitizer.

Keep rooms well ventilated by opening windows and doors whenever possible to reduce air borne transmission of infections

They also say people should wear a well-fitting mask if they are experiencing COVID or flu like symptoms when in indoor or public settings, or when physical distancing is not possible.

They say for those travelling to countries experiencing a rise in COVID infections to wear masks when moving about in these countries.

The Ministry says those who develop any COVID-19 symptoms are advised to visit their nearest health facility to get tested immediately and if positive, isolate at home for 5-days.

They say to ensure you are fully vaccinated with all recommended doses, including boosters, to provide the strongest protection against severe illness.

The Ministry says vaccines remain highly effective in preventing serious outcomes, even with new variants.

Furthermore, it is important for members of the public to note that January is the start of the Flu (influenza) season in Fiji, and it is anticipated that there will be an increase in the number in Flu cases from around the country in the months of January to March.

The recommended protective measures above will also help to prevent you from contracting the flu, as well as prevent the spread of the flu virus to others.