MEDIA RELEASE 9: 2019 NOVEL CORONA-VIRUS
There are no confirmed cases of Novel Coronavirus in Fiji
The foreign national isolated at Nadi Hospital since the evening of Thursday 6th February has tested negative for 2019-nCoV and has been cleared for release. To date all persons investigated for 2019-nCoV in Fiji have tested negative. There are no confirmed cases of 2019-nCoV in Fiji.
As the symptoms of 2019-nCoV are very similar to many other respiratory illnesses (including colds and influenza) it is expected that with time the Ministry will investigate more persons with relevant travel history and symptoms related to 2019-nCoV. This should not alarm the public, as this is an indication of the level of alert we are maintaining for this globally spreading disease. And with more cases detected in countries around the world, including in neighbouring countries such as Australia, the Ministry of Health and Medical Services continues to be on high alert and is preparing for possible importation of cases.
What can you do?
The Fijian Ministry of Health and Medical Services strongly urges the public to not share rumours and misinformation. Just as we did during the measles outbreak the Ministry will inform the public as soon as possible once we have a confirmed case. Use credible sources for information on 2019-nCoV:
Fiji Ministry of Health and Medical Services website http://www.health.gov.fj/
Fiji Ministry of Health and Medical Services Facebook page, https://www.facebook.com/MoHFiji/
WHO website https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/advice-for-public
How can you prevent yourself from getting 2019-nCoV and other diseases?
- Frequently clean hands soap and water or an alcohol-based hand rub
- When coughing or sneezing cover mouth and nose with flexed elbow or tissue – throw tissue away immediately and wash hands
- Avoid close contact with anyone who has fever and cough
- Avoid travel to mainland China
If you have been to mainland China in the last 14 days and develop symptoms (fever, cough or difficulty breathing), immediately contact one of the numbers listed below. If you need to see a doctor please call ahead, using the following phone numbers, before visiting to reduce the risk of infecting other patients.
- Central 2219905
- Eastern 2219906
- Western 2219907
- Northern 2219908
The Fijian Ministry of Health and Medical Services is monitoring the developing situation and will provide updates regularly to the public.