Currently there are no confirmed cases of the COVID-19 in Solomon Islands. Results from samples being sent overseas for possible COVID-19 infection are still unknown as the Health Ministry awaits results from the laboratory.
Two people are currently being investigated for possible COVID-19 infection.
The Ministry of Health and Medical Services (MHMS) said these individuals are in isolation as they await results.
The latest update from the health ministry said the individuals are being checked daily and have been assessed by the Public Health Surveillance team in appropriate isolation.
In Honiara an isolation ward is being set up at the National Referral Hospital for confirmed or suspected cases.
World Health Organization (WHO) is assisting the Ministry of Health with equipment while the New Zealand Government is supporting the cost of refurbishment for the isolation ward.
The quarantine facility in Honiara is now operating with nurses and security officers on site. MHMS stressed this is for people who are NOT sick but are being assessed as they are at risk of being exposed to the virus.
The Health Ministry said travelers and crew travelling from “affected” countries will be subjected to risk-based assessment by the Solomon Islands government. Travellers may be subjected to quarantine restrictions for up to 14 days or monitored by health authorities for 14 days or denied entry.
Any person found to be providing false information to the Solomon Islands government will be prosecuted under the relevant laws of Solomon Islands. This may include imprisonment or deportation.
Source: MHMS