Tonga’s COVID cases declining [1]
Sunday, June 19, 2022 - 16:44. Updated on Monday, June 20, 2022 - 07:38.
Tonga may look at re-opening its borders if the current downward trend of active COVID-19 cases in the community continues to decline. There were only 234 active COVID-19 cases recorded as of 14 June.
The Minister of Health Hon Dr Saia Piukala in a press conference on 15 June, said there were only 36 new positive cases as of 14 June, which is satisfactory.
He commended the public for working together with the Ministry to ensure this downward trend.
Since 1 February the total positive cases stood at 12,079.
Of the current 234 active cases in the community the majority are in Tongatapu with 208, Vavau 12 and in Ha’apai 14.
"Although our COVID cases continues to be on a satisfactory level that is not a reason for us to be complacent. We must still need to ensure our safety," he said.
COVID tests are available outside Vaiola Hospital and the variant in Tonga is still Omircon B1.
The Minister also said there were some COVID-cases reported at Tupou Colllege and Hillard School but that was being managed by the Ministry.
"It is planned that if we continue down this satisfactory level, we will look at re-opening our border for international travel and revive our economy."
On 30 June, it is expected that the quarantine and isolation days will be reduced from five to three-days.
Same restrictions
At the same time, the Prime Minister Hon Hu'akavameiliku said due to this satisfactory level, Cabinet had approved to allow the playing of contact sports.
These sports must still adhere with the Ministry of Health’s protocol to ensure that the virus is not spread, he said.
The current restrictions continues with the same night-time curfew.
All schools in Tonga have returned to the classrooms.