Briefs

Test negative
Test results of the 16th person who came into contact with index case last month has returned negative. The Health department thanked the employer, Hidden Valley mine for its support.

Virus has no respect
Coronavirus is an invisible pandemic that has no respect for people, borders, countries and families, says Minister for Foreign Affairs and International Trade Patrick Pruaitch. He held a telephone conference with Pacific Islands Forum leaders on a way to address the coronavirus pandemic.

Firm supports govt
Newcrest Mining Ltd has set up a community support fund of K20 million to assist Papua New Guinea in its response to the Covid-19 pandemic. Managing director and chief executive officer Sandeep Biswas said the company was committed to supporting the Government in managing this crisis.

Cargoes only
Air Niugini general manager for cargo Gus Kraus said the airline has been operating its Boeing 767 to bring in essential medical supplies. “We are abiding by the Government’s directive by only airlifting cargo (international flights),” he said.

Pastors’ role vital
Oneness Union Pastors’ Altar chairman Jeremiah Todd says pastors have an influential role to play when it comes to awareness in the community. Todd made this known after a meeting with churches and the people of Bumbu Compound in Lae on coronavirus awareness.

K300,000 donation
THE Chinese community in the country led by the China-PNG Friendship Association (CPNGFA) has donated K300,000 towards the Health Department to help fight the coronavirus (Covid-19) global pandemic.

Enough awareness
NATIONAL Capital District Governor Powes Parkop says the city’s awareness team has done enough to inform its residents about Covid-19. The team managed to reach parts of the city even though they were not well received in some.

Goods thrown out
A businessman in Western Highlands claims he had to throw out frozen goods worth about K7,000 during the 14-day lockdown in Mt Hagen. Muri Trading owner Elijah Tiki said “I might as well close my operation.”

Shops resume ops
MOST shops have resumed operations in Mt Hagen and some parts of the highlands. Deputy Assistant Commissioner of Police Eastern End Joseph Tondop said a few services had also been restored.

Churches included
MOROBE Covid-19 response committee has met with bishops and parish presidents of churches in Lae to educate the people on personal health and hygiene. Lae MP John Rosso said politicians, police and health workers would not do it without the churches.