Although there are no reported cases of coronavirus in the Solomon Islands to date, the Solomon Islands Ministry of Health and Medical Services (MHMS) has released a statement outlining its vigilant action to prevent possible importation of the disease to the Solomons.
MHMS permanent secretary, Pauline McNeil, said that considering a number of nearby countries had already recorded suspected cases, the likelihood of coronavirus appearing in the Solomon Islands could not be ruled out.
“Essential medical supplies to handle cases of 2019-nCoV are being mobilised and development partners are standing by with additional resources should these be needed,” she said.
“We want to reassure everyone – both local people and travellers heading to the Solomon Islands – that we are preparing for that possibility.
“As a ‘first line’ of defence MHMS is working with immigration and customs officials at ports and airports, training them on how to recognise cases of 2019-nCoV.
“Incoming visitors will be provided with guidance on what to do if they think they have the infection.”
Tourism Solomons CEO, Josefa ‘Jo’ Tuamoto said local health authorities were doing everything to prevent possible importation of the disease, including surveillance at all air and sea ports and other points of entry into the Solomons, adding that health officials are on hand to check all inbound airline passengers for signs of illness.
