Statement From The Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama on Novel Coronavirus (29 Jan)

Bula Vinaka.

I have been in constant contact with the Ministry of Health to determine how we can protect the Fijian people from the global spread of the coronavirus. The virus is now present on four continents, with confirmed cases in countries as far removed as Australia, the United States, and Germany.

As of 29 January, there are no confirmed cases of the coronavirus in Fiji and there remain zero direct flights from mainland China to Fiji.

We have continued our strengthened screening at all Asian ports of entry. Every passenger travelling to Fiji from Hong Kong and Singapore is being met by health officers who are checking health declaration forms. These passengers are also being required to undergo thermal screening prior to boarding. From tomorrow, at all Asian ports, any passengers who have recently travelled to the Hubei Province in China will require a medical declaration before being accepted on a Fiji Airways flight. Additionally, we’ll be rolling out a health declaration form that every traveler to Fiji, by air or sea, will be required to complete before they will be allowed into the country.

With the guidance of the world’s leading health organisation, Fiji is pursuing the proven, medically-sound course of action. In doing so, we are anticipating and actively preparing for a case of the coronavirus in the country. Contingency plans are in place at all major health facilities. Our hospitals are stocking up on the necessary supplies. We are ready to aggressively identify, treat, investigate and contain the virus if it arrives in the country.

We have confirmed that the Fijian students studying in Wuhan, China are safe and healthy. If and when required, we will work with our partners to evacuate our students from Wuhan. Upon leaving China, those students will be quarantined in Fiji. In the meantime, we are working to establish a full-time quarantine facility in Fiji for any individuals suspected of carrying the virus.

Make no mistake: Advocating for alarmist, unproven methods of prevention is counterproductive and not in the interest of the health of the Fijian people.

It remains vital that Fijians practice good hygiene. Wash your hands, cover your mouth and nose if you cough or sneeze and report to the nearest health facility if you feel unwell.

I will continue to personally review all updates relating to the coronavirus situation. Our top priority is ensuring the health of every Fijian. As the situation develops, I am prepared to order more stringent and proven courses of action, if necessary.

Thank you and God Bless.