Minister for Health and Medical Services, Dr Ifereimi Waqainabete has commended the high vaccination rate on Vanua Balavu and says the support from islanders towards Government's effort against COVID-19 is a fine example for the other islands in the Lau group of islands.
“As a result, you set a challenge to the other islands because the vaccination drive started on Vanua Balavu much later than on other islands, but you exceeded them all in the number of people vaccinated,” the Minister told villagers of Tikina Lomaloma and Tikina Mualevu.
In spite of the high vaccination rate, however, the Minister cautioned that it does not mean that all have been vaccinated.
“We will continue to preach the benefits of the vaccine and encourage those who are skeptical to get the jab.”
“COVID as we have heard and witnessed can mutate and the result is what we are seeing today – the Delta and Omicron variants,” Minister Waqainabete explained to the islanders.
The minister explained that Government is taking measures to ensure the safety of every Fijian and vaccination is a way forward in creating a safer Fiji.
“COVID is here to stay and we must live with it. However, it is the duty of every Fijian to ensure that we are fully vaccinated and protect our fellow citizens.”
The Minister also assured villagers that the medical ship MV Veivueti will make regular visits with medical experts to conduct ‘on-island’ surgeries to complement the services at Lomaloma Hospital.
“By bringing such services to your shores, the Government is reducing the cost to Fijians in our outer islands since traveling to Suva is expensive. Your loved one will be there with you by your side.”
“Be rest assured we will address the issues at Lomaloma Hospital as raised today by the Sub Divisional Medical Officer and ensure that it delivers its services effectively.”