The Permanent Secretary for Health and Medical Services, Dr James Fong is advising people attending Digicel Duavata Northern Crime Prevention carnival to take precautions against COVID-19.

The weeklong carnival staging 29 contestants in various categories at Subrail Park in Labasa started last Saturday.

Dr Fong said at the event, as a COVID-19 safety measure, people should wear an appropriate mask when indoors, especially in poorly ventilated spaces. He also advised them to mask up when in crowded public spaces.

“COVID-19 is currently prevalent and hence even when attending open air events, we are urging people to use hand sanitisers,” Dr Fong said.

“We are at a phase of living with COVID-19 and urging everyone to engage in the proper behaviour that will keep Fiji COVID-safe.”

He said one of the high risk places where viruses could easily spread was in crowded public spaces.

Meanwhile, eight queens, four kings, six princesses and six-teen contestants visited the Holy Family flea market.

Carnival committee chairperson Satish Kumar said people were excited that after two years they had resumed the festivity programme.

“We want people to enjoy responsibly and hence, we are urging people to follow Dr Fong’s instructions,” Mr Kumar said.

“We thank the ministry for the outstanding effort done in maintaining COVID-19 so that we can at least have outdoor programmes.”

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