Forward together

AS our numbers continue to spiral out of control, we are now forced to re-evaluate our strategy moving forward. There is growing concern about how we are actually handling this COVID-19 pandemic, and whether we are near the point of no return, where we overwhelm our health system.

As much as our health experts try to reassure us daily, the rising numbers are raising great concern.

We are reminded about opting for the vaccination program. We are reminded about the great need for us to get the jab and steer Fiji to some semblance of safety.

In the face of this sits the fact that we have opened some borders and people are freely travelling over areas that had previously been part of different containment zones.

There had to be an explosion in the number of new cases.

When we consider the incubation period of the virus, coupled with the high number of daily cases, it makes sense that we can expect more infections.

Our challenge as individuals should be to adhere to COVID-19 safety advice.

That means doing the little things right.

We all know about physical distancing. We all know about sneezing into our elbows.

We all know about cutting out handshakes and hugs. We all know about the need for us to mask up and stay in our own bubbles.

In fact it has been drilled into us for so long that every Fijian, but now, would know about safety measures that we need to follow.

The question is why aren’t we all doing this?

It is encouraging that the majority of Fijians are actually playing it safe.

However, it is unfortunate that there are still some Fijians who aren’t following the rules at all.

They insist this is all a lie. They shrug aside safety concerns and will play their little hide-and-seek games with the law, to engage in dangerous behaviour such as drinking kava with friends, and sharing cigarettes and alcohol.

The powers that be have a challenge to draw on this segment of society, understand them, and try to nurture a change in mindset.

That could come with well-timed dissemination of information daily, via every available source and information platform.

There must be clarity in delivery of information, the direction we must head towards, and how we must unite to flatten the curve.

Otherwise our numbers are simply frightening to say the least.

We look up to the powers that be to be assertive, and to take control of the direction we must take. We expect tough decisions to be made for the good of all Fijians.

In saying that, let’s continue to play our parts for ourselves, our loved ones and for our nation.