Paralympic team get second jab

Sports

PAPUA New Guinea’s Paralympic team are protected against Covid-19 after receiving their second dose of the AstraZeneca vaccine last Friday.
Chef de mission Susanne Sere told The National that the team of four — herself, Jackie Travetz (coach) and para-athletes Morea Mararos and Nelly Leva — were ready for the Tokyo Paralympic Games next month.
But she said they were still seeking sponsorship to cover their travel costs to Japan and back.
“We received our first and second doses on May 3 and last Friday respectively,” Sere said.
“Apart from being fully vaccinated, each person is required to do two Covid-19 tests within 96 hours before departure.
“This needs to be done at designated hospitals recognised by Tokyo 2020 (host organising committee).
“These hospitals are Pacific International Hospital (PIH) and St John Ambulance, but they are costly.
“In saying this, we would welcome any donations and sponsorship for the team to assist with their travel, testing and so on.”
Sere said so far, they had received support from Bank South Pacific Financial Group Limited and Steamships Limited, however, it was still not enough to cover all costs.
The total cost of the team’s trip had not been disclosed, however, Sere said “with Covid-19, the expenses are higher than usual”.