BY BEN BILUA
Gizo
THE first test result of COVID-19 on a person of interest at Noro came back negative last night.
Reports reaching Island Sun Gizo states that tests were made on five (5) specimens collected from Noro, all came back negative.
The report states that the specimens were collected from the person of interest and the household with whom he came into contact.
It states that the patient is currently undergoing home quarantine.
In Gizo, the western Provincial Executive has endorsed the public Health and Social Measures in an effort to stop the virus from further transmission.
Premier of Western Province, Christian Mesepitu says today that his executive has resolved the following measures to be respected and followed.
1. International borders to remain close.
2. No ships and planes to enter Western Province until further notice.
3. Community COVID-19 task force and community and communities to activate community awareness.
4. No social gatherings such as sports or other activities.
5. Activate and enforce hand washing practices.
6. Wearing a mask is compulsory in workplaces, shops, banks and public places.
7. Social distancing in workplaces, shops, banks, and public places.
8. Churches to remain open but limit the numbers of people according to social distance rules and regulations.
9. Limit inter-island travels unless travel is of essential reasons such as hospital run as well as transporting foods.
10. People must stay at home when necessary.
11. Night clubs, card games, and other activities that attract mass gatherings to close immediately.
12. Betel nut markets on street to stop immediately.
13. Gizo Market to open on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday but make sure vendors apply social distancing vendors to wear masks.
14. Limit the number of passengers on boats transporting foods and essential items to urban centers.
He stressed that the measures are effective as of today until further notice.
On that note, Mesepitu calls on the people of Western Province to adhere to precaution measures and advice given out by responsible authorities.
“Our country and province is at high risk of COVID-19 further transmission as such we must follow the rules and regulations to stop this virus from further transmission.
“Your cooperation is paramount as together we can stop this virus,” he says.
