Authorities are warning the public not to spread false news or information about the current status of the COVID-19 virus.

Health authorities say that to date there are no confirmed cases of the COVID-19 virus in the Solomon Islands, and in the wider Pacific region only one has been reported in Tahiti.

They say that the only form of news, information or update concerning the current status of the COVID – 19 virus in the Solomon Islands will be from the Ministry of Health and Medical Services (MHMS).

Authorities say they are aware that there are certain individuals who are using social media to spread misinformation and rumour on COVID-19. They say those that post and share misinformation about COVID-19 on social media should be mindful of the potential panic they could cause. 

Authorities say if there are confirmed cases of the COVID-19 the public will be made aware through appropriate channels as there will be additional measures imposed on the public by relevant government authorities.

RSIPF Acting Commissioner, Mostyn Mangau says, “The Plan and the Covid-19 Operation Order is to support the whole-of-government response to any potentially high threat and impact of a Corona virus outbreak in Solomon Islands.”

“There is a coordinated working committee between, RSIPF and its bilateral partners the Australian- Solomon Islands Police Development Program (SIPDP) and the New Zealand – Solomon Islands Police Support Program (SIPSP).”

He says the RSIPF is currently providing outside patrols at the quarantine area and continues to liaise with other relevant government agencies.

The Minister for MHMS Dickson Mua says that to date 16 individuals are under quarantine, made necessary by health regulations. He says that these individuals show no signs or symptoms of the COVID-19 but have been quarantined based on their travel history prior to arriving in the Solomon Islands.

The Minister says that 9 people are at the quarantine site and 7 are on home quarantine. He says a team of medical experts are monitoring them on a daily basis.

He says that these 16 individuals will be quarantined for 14 days before they can be allowed to leave and assures the public that they are being monitored daily.