PNG Controller imposes 14-day restriction on West New Britain following spike in COVID-19 cases

 Papua New Guinea COVID-19 National Pandemic Controller David Manning has announced a 14-day restriction for the West New Province and a curfew from 10pm to 5am daily effective from midnight today as COVID-19 cases increase in the province.

The restriction is effective from midnight tonight (Thursday 31st December 2020) and will be in force for 14 days ending at 12 am on the 15th of January 2021.

Mr Manning issued new measures for the province today after advice from the COVID-19 technical team showing increases in the COVID-19 cases.

Mr Manning said, “It is unfortunate the measures had to be imposed as we transcend into 2021 but as I have stated always, COVID-19 is here to stay and does not respect the status of people and Calendar events and activities therefore it is very important health and medical protocols are observed at all times.

“The situation is serious and I urged all residents of West New Britain to observe this and respect the measures put in place for their benefit. I also urge residents of East New Britain province to respect these measures and not to travel into West New Britain by road or by sea.

 Airline and shipping companies are being advised and I expect them to comply or face penalties under the Pandemic Act.”

Mr Manning also announced the COVID-19 National Control Centre is monitoring the global situation regarding the mutating COVID-19 Virus and appropriate measures will be put in place to safeguard the country.

“Going into the new year, I urged all citizens to observe the health and medical protocols to wash and sanitize hands regularly, observe social distancing, wear masks, avoid crowded places and stay at home when there is no need to move around.As we await advice on the vaccines being used in some countries, we must continue to observe the protocols we have always advised,” Mr Manning said.

The Controller issued Measure No. 13 under the National Pandemic Act 2020 which comes into effect as of 12 midnight tonight. Copy of the measure is attached.

Statement

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