Honiara is experiencing a surge in COVID-19 cases with 104 positive cases recorded during the period 24th October to 8th of November.

1072 persons in Honiara were tested during that period.

There are no persons hospitalized with COVID-19 and no COVID related deaths reported by the National Referral Hospital since the new surge in cases.

As highlighted in the recent media release last week, genome sequencing to identify the type of variant from samples sent overseas showed Omicron sub-variant BA.4 and BA.5 as the predominant variants causing the resurgence.

To date, these sub-variants do not appear to be causing more severe disease; however, they do spread easily.

As such MHMS would like to reiterate COVID-19 safe measures which include:

  • Wear face masks in public spaces and on public transportation at all times if possible.
  • Frequent hand washing with soap or hand sanitizer at all times.
  • Cough into bent elbow or tissue and dispose of it properly at all times
  • Implement social distancing of at least two (2) meter.
  • Avoid large gatherings as much as possible.
  • Get fully vaccinated against COVID-19. Those who are not yet vaccinated are encouraged to get vaccinated at your nearest health clinic and those who are fully vaccinated should get a booster.

Schools and workplaces and other spaces and places where people congregate are to uphold these measures.

Parents and guardians are urged to keep their children at home if they see signs of coughing, runny nose, and fever and take them to the nearest clinic if these symptoms worsen.

The National Medical Store are ensuring rapid test kits are available across health facilities.

The COVID-19 vaccines continue to provide good protection against severe disease and those who have not had the full course should strongly consider getting vaccinated to protect themselves and their loved ones.

Even though this Omicron subvariant BA.5 does not appear to be the cause of more severe disease than previous subvariants, we need to continue protecting those most of risk including people over 60 years and those with illnesses that affect their immunity.

If you develop severe symptoms of COVID such as difficulty breathing, immediately seek care and nearest health facility.

Source: MHMS Media