Vanuatu has formally recorded its first COVID-19 case, putting an end to the nation’s status as one of the few nations that still remain virus-free in the world.
Director of Vanuatu Public Health, Len Vanatu said a 23-year-old man was confirmed to have the virus recently after being tested on the fifth day of his quarantine period.
In a statement issued, the department said: “A case detected in quarantine is considered a border case and not an outbreak.” The department added that health protocols were in place to curb the virus.
Vanatu added that the infected man, a man from Vanuatu, had travelled from the United States through Sydney and Auckland, but had been isolated from other passengers while the journey was on as a precautionary step.
While talking during a press conference, the Prime Minister of Vanuatu, Bob Loughman said: “I want to assure all citizens and the public that the situation is under control and the government through the COVID-19 task force is prepared and ready to address this case.”
According to information gathered, authorities plan to quarantine his fellow passengers and trace his close contacts. However, authorities do not plan to impose lockdown measures in the country of 300,000 people.
