There are a total of 190 positive COVID-19 cases recorded in Solomon Islands Thursday.
The Minister of Health and Medical services Dr Culwick Togamana gave the updated figure during his daily situation report on the COVID-19 outbreak in the country.
He said of the 190 positive cases, 167 cases are in Honiara, with Makira province registering its first two positive case, and Malaita registered 21.
The Health Minister said that brings the total number of positive COVID-19 cases recorded since the outbreak to 2,357.
With the latest figures and report the virus has now spread to all but three provinces in the country. The Health Minister contends that it is probably only a matter of time before the whole country succumbs to the virus.
Meanwhile, the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) rebutted a social media post claiming that the high number of officers tested positive with COVID-19 was through close interaction with the Solomons’ International Assistance Force (SIAF) during the civil unrest in November 2021.
Police Commissioner Mostyn Mangau said, “This is not true. Those involved in the intervention have been tested negative for COVID-19 before they flew to Solomon Islands. They have also tested and have negative results upon their arrival.”
“Misinformation from members of the public can mislead the public and form rumours that tarnish the reputation of others. It is time that we should not blame anybody for the entry of COIVD-19 into our shores but to work together and fight against it.”
“It is time we take things seriously, as cases continue to increase every day. We must work together to support the Ministry of Health to fight this deadly virus.”
“I want to call on all residents of Honiara and Provinces to work together with the government authorities addressing the issue of the virus so we can get through this unfortunate situation as a united law abiding country,” Commissioner Mangau emphasises.
Deputy Commissioner (RSIPF) for the Solomon International Assistance Force (SIAF) Paul Osborne said, “The SIAF contingents complied with all agreed COVID-19 directions in line with Solomon Islands Health requirements when they deployed. They continue to comply with all requested health requirements and instructions. Since commencing operational duties in the Solomon Islands SIAF contingents have practiced strict COVID-19 safe measures.”
SOURCE: SOLOMON TIMES ONLINE/ PACNEWS
