The Solomon Islands today is in situation of tackling introduced cases of Covid-19 and hoping to end the pandemic threat.
The threat can be stopped –and it will – but there must be absolute determination and obedience to the health and safety warning from the MHMS and the government and all cooperating together.
Society today is being tested on the ability to cooperate in fighting the virus for, frankly, up till now it has not, as clearly evidenced by the very low vaccination levels and despite the constant health warnings from the government and the Prime Minister, himself having taken the lead, in making such warning notices by way of preparatory health advice.
Now to be able to fight Covid all must act as one body to prevent the virus spread and prevent sick people from overwhelming the health care system.
Self interest must be set aside for greater cooperation.
You all know the health advice to be followed, and I together with the MHMS and the SIG, has set out the essential rules about social distancing, the wearing of face masks, constant hand washing, using hand sanitizing gel/cream and vitally important getting oneself fully vaccinated as soon as possible with a WHO approved Covid vaccination – already available in the Solomon Islands, and more testing and vaccinations centers being made available.
Practice self-isolation at home when medically advised, and all cooperate to keep safe, your loved ones, your communities and the country.
The Solomon Islands has overcome many challenging situations in the years since 1978 and the Covid crisis is just one more that will be overcome, but perhaps more than ever in the past total cooperation and unity of purpose is needed by everyone in the ways I have outlined.
Yours sincerely
Frank Short
