Take warning about potential new wave of COVID-19 outbreak seriously

Dr James Fong has given us a clear warning. The Permanent Secretary for Health and Medical Services says Fiji will soon be hit by a third wave of COVID-19.

It means the number of community transmitted cases will jump. The ministry is assuming that the highly transmissible variant Omicron is already here in our community.

We should take the warning seriously otherwise we will regret it later.

Festive activities like parties and gatherings are potential super spreaders particularly if we ignore the safety protocols like the wearing of masks, physical distancing and hand washing.

It’s obvious that after the reopening of the local and international borders, people have gone out to enjoy their freedom. And because it coincides with the festive season, they have dropped their guard.

This is visible as you walk through the cities and towns. More and more people are not wearing masks or not wearing them properly. What are the law enforcement officers doing? If they are strict in enforcing the law, it will act as a deterrent. People will flout the law if they know they can easily get away with it.

Physical distancing appears non-existent and it is not clear whether people are diligent in washing their hands and using sanitizers. It is a known fact that the virus spreads faster in an enclosed area than in open space.

We have been repeatedly reminded that the war against the killer virus is not over yet although freedom of movement and activities have been restored

As we celebrate this freedom, let’s be mindful that we do it sensibly within reason. Responsible use of this freedom includes strict compliance of the health protocols.

If we fail to do this, then we can’t complain if some of the restrictions already lifted are reintroduced to stop the spread like some countries have done.

If we can’t co-operate and defy the protocols then we are giving the health authorities no choice, but to bring back restrictions.

In our gatherings, particularly religious meetings, the following are suggestions to avoid the spread of the virus:

■ Entry by vaccination card only

■ Unvaccinated can watch proceedings from home through zoom

■ Masks in the meeting place

■ Social distancing whenever possible

■ Sit in alternate rows in the chapel - leaving a space between you and other families

■ Avoid physical contact and physical greetings

■ Use sanitiser regularly

■ If anyone has signs of illness - Running nose, cough, sore throat, fever, body aches etc then please remain at home.

If we do everything we can to stay safe we will have a better New Year.

On this note, we wish everyone a happy and prosperous 2022.