Bougainville on high alert for signs of coronavirus

THE outbreak of the new coronavirus (Covid-19) that originated in China has triggered alarm worldwide with authorities implementing tighter border controls, imposing travel bans and other measures.
In the Autonomous Region of Bougainville, the health division has established a health response team as a measure to respond locally to the announcement made by the National Department of Health that the country is on heightened surveillance for suspected cases.
Bougainville’s health response team is being led by Buka General Hospital’s acting chief executive officer Dr Tommy Wotsia and the acting director of medical services Dr Mathias Tovilu.
The response team has assured the public that there are no confirmed cases in the country to date, however, they are working closely with relevant authorities to monitor the global spread.
“The AROB health response team has remained vigilant in tracking the global spread and response to the Covid-19 outbreak as well as following the most up to date information and recommendations from the National Department of Health, World Health Organisation and other relevant national and international organisations,” Wotsia said.