More than 100 villagers flocked to the Nalelele Community Hall on Cikobia Island to be vaccinated for COVID-19 this past week.

This is after the vaccination team finally arrived to one of the furthest maritime community of Macuata Province.

Cikobia Methodist Circuit’s Reverend Viliame Taufa said they had been patiently waiting for the Ministry of Health team so villagers could get the jab.

Reverend Taufa said they had been observing all the COVID-19 safety protocols including exemption from worship in Church.

“We will continue to worship at our own homes until we’re all fully vaccinated by end of November.

“Getting vaccinated will also allow the franchise shipping vessels to make their usual trips and take our copra so we can earn some money to be able to buy basic essential items such as sugar, flour and tea.

“The franchise shipping had halted their services in September because islanders had not yet been vaccinated.

“It is good news for us because in the past months we have come to rely solely on our natural and marine resources for our food supply since the island of Cikobia is blessed with its rich resources.”

The father of five children said there were 16 students and four pregnant women who received the Moderna vaccine while the rest received the AstraZeneca vaccine.

Cikobia requests team

Meanwhile, acting Divisional Medical Officer North Dr Tiko Saumalua said Cikobia had contacted the Commissioner Northern’s office indicating their interest to be vaccinated.

“We sent a team of eight medical workers last Thursday along with other supplies for the Nursing Station, such as the solar system, plumber and other medical supplies,”Dr Tiko said.

“The team had to stay there until the weather improved and had just returned early this week,” he said.

Edited by Ranoba Baoa

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