Clearance testing will no longer be required for primary contacts in the Western Division as it now enters the mitigation phase in the battle against COVID-19.

On Thursday night, Permanent Secretary for Health Dr James Fong said just like in the Suva, Nausori and Lami containment area, all primary contacts in the Western Division are required to self-isolate at home for 14-days from the day the known COVID-19 case they had close contact with, tested positive.

He said workers requiring an official leave from work can attend the nearest screening clinic or Health Care Facility. They had to be checked to obtain a medical certificate for 14 days of self-isolation at home.

“Residents for the whole of the Western Division from the Nadroga Medical subdivision to the Ra medical subdivision are requested to note that the Ministry of Health and Medical Services will, in the coming days, be varying its public advisories and guidelines to reflect the evolving COVID-19 situation

Individuals experiencing COVID-19 symptoms should visit the nearest screening clinic for testing, Dr Fong said.

“Individuals who test positive will be provided immediate advice and care by the health teams at the screening facility.”

He added that the divisional health teams will no longer carry out contact tracing.

“Health response teams in the Western Division will now be redirected to the identification and close monitoring of people with COVID-19 symptoms who are at higher risk of developing severe COVID-19.

“Members of the public who return positive COVID-19 test results will be provided advice and resources to aid their self-isolation at home. COVID-19 positive cases are encouraged to take responsibility and share information and advice with their known primary contacts.”

Edited by Caroline Ratucadra

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