The Kava Corp Fiji Chief Executive is calling on Fijians to follow the COVID-19 protocols as drinking grog is a factor in the spread of the virus.

John Sanday says Fijians must take all the advisory issued by the Ministry of Health seriously and not invite people from outside their household to drink grog.

“We should always follow government protocols in particular during this time of the pandemic so that we can contain this virus. Family bubbles to stay within their homes.”

Kava consumption may have been woven into the fabric of our culture, however, the same practices of close contact with others and drinking out of a common grog bowl creates the perfect condition for the virus to spread.

Ministry of Health Permanent Secretary Doctor James Fong had warned that he may recommend a complete ban of grog if people continue to flout the protocols in place.

This follows reports received by the Ministry that some infected people have been drinking grog with people outside their household.

The Ministry of Health strongly emphasizes the need to protect personal space at home and at work by making sure COVID-safe measures are followed at all time and to refrain from any form of gatherings outside of home.