The reduction days in Managed Isolation and Quarantine days for passengers coming from overseas, while a valid move, requires an explanation for public knowledge and understanding.
“This is to avoid any confusion and unnecessary doubts by the public on the measures put in place by the Government as they deal with the rapid spread of community cases of COVID-19.”
This is according to Medical Doctor, Leituala Dr Ben Matalavea who is certain the decision was made with data and research but the change still warrants an explanation.
This week, Cabinet approved the amendments of the Managed Isolation and Quarantine, from 21 days to 14 days and then to 7 days, said Deputy Director General Tagaloa Dr Robert Thomsen during a press conference with the media this week.
Tagaloa said the lessened MIQ as per recommendation from Cabinet and was effective on the flight that arrived Tuesday from New Zealand; while the passengers from Fiji and New Zealand earlier in the month are still required to undergo 14 days in MIQ.
Radio Polynesia reached out to the Minister of Health, Valasi Tafito Selesele for comments on the move, but was unsuccessful.
Leituala said the virus is rapidly spreading in the Community and with the mass vaccination ongoing this will certainly assist but considering other Pacific Countries have also minimized the MIQ days and certainly Samoa is following this trend.
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