Movement restrictions across Fiji are now in effect until 4am tomorrow.

Permanent Secretary for Health Dr James Fong says any business that is non-essential must stay closed and movement that isn’t critical must be avoided.

Dr Fong says the restriction does not require a complete shutdown – but there are very few reasons for people to venture out.

“So, except for shopping for food or medicine, or traveling for a medical emergency, there are no other reasons to leave your home. If you are out and about without an essential reason, the police will ask you to go back to where you reside.”

Public transportation may run but with mask-wearing enforced.

Dr Fong adds people must not forget that there is still a curfew in effect every night.

“There is a nationwide curfew between 11 pm and 4 am every night. As announced yesterday, we are asking for restricted movement outside of the curfew hours from 7 pm tonight until 11 pm on Sunday.”

The Permanent Secretary says during the restricted movement period health teams will be conducting screenings in targeted regions in the country.

Dr Fong says the teams will be checking Fijians for COVID-19 like symptoms and making sure they had no contact with someone who was contagious with the virus.

He adds if protocols are not followed, Ministry will have to recommend lockdown measures for entire towns and cities.

Screening and swab tests around Lautoka

Movement restrictions in Cunningham in Suva

LTA officers along Princes Road in Suva

The Suva bus stand