Observe Covid-19 rules, Morobe people told

The National National

HEALTH authorities in Morobe are advising the people to remain alert and observe Covid-19 protocols and health safety measures as the pandemic may still exists in the country.
The provincial health authority said in a statement that Indonesia, which had a high rate of Covid-19 cases, shared land and sea borders with PNG. “(Thus) the likeliness of the Covid-19 transmitted to the country is high,” it said.
Papua province in Indonesia is currently reporting Covid-19 cases in areas close to border with West Sepik and Western.
It said while the border was still closed, “people (from Indonesia can sneak to PNG and the transmission of the Covid-19 can happen”.
As of June 27, Papua province reported 1,633 confirmed cases and seven deaths.
It warned Morobe people who developed symptoms of the Covid-19 to call the hotline 1800 200 or visit the Milfordhaven Urban and Buimo Urban clinics, Lae International Hospital, GM Flores Hospital, Igam barracks or the Morobe district hospitals and health centres.
The latest orders from the National Pandemic Controller David Manning require:

  • Any sporting activities must be approved by the controller through the PNG Sports Foundation;
  • religious activities to observe social distancing and hygiene standards. Provincial and national church gatherings remain banned.
  • licensed gambling venues, nightclubs and horse racing at listed venues must operate on Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays.

The Morobe health authority said the rapid response and surveillance team was continuing to monitor the situation in the province and when necessary facilitate sample testing.