The checkpoint at Qauia settlement in Lami

75 new COVID-19 cases have been recorded in Qauia, Lami.

Health Permanent Secretary Dr Fong says they have instituted a targeted containment program for the community after learning lessons from the previous containment programmes in dealing with the new variant.

He is pleading with Qauia residents and other informal settlements under containment protocols to be responsible and stay within their bubbles.

“Many in our communities including the elderly and those living with underlying conditions even some young people could be killed by the virus. We need to protect this Fijians that is our mission. Please I beg you all make it your mission also. The scenes that we have seen in some of our density populated communities are not too nice so we ask especially to those that think that COVID safety measures do not apply to them, please think again.”

Chief Medical Avisor Dr.Jemesa Tudravu clarifies the containment approach in Qauia is not a disciplinary action against the community.

“Our frontline teams are going to engage more with the Qauia community including the community leaders to ensure that the community understands that the containment approach is for the purpose of protecting and supporting the community and is not a punitive measure or a penalty for their action or the response.”

Dr Tudravu says they’ve met with frontline teams and the Disciplinary Forces to ensure close collaboration including those providing social services support for the provision of food, household items and hygiene kits.

The Health Ministry says we can avoid any unnecessary loss of life by being compliant, adopt COVID-safe behaviour, and maintain that discipline as we continue to battle against the pandemic.