Tonga is carrying out 1500-1700 COVID tests weekly, but only 62 positive cases were recorded last week, the Minister of Health said today, 30 January. 

The COVID-19 variants in Tonga are BA2 and BA5 and there have only been mild cases reported in Tonga over the past two-weeks.

At a press conference the Minister of Health, Hon Dr Saia Piukala updated the status of COVID-19.

He said there were only 82 positive cases recorded the week before.

“We can confirm that the XBB1.5 variant has not arrived in Tonga and the only ones we have are the BA2 and BA5 variants. There are no serious cases and the COVID-19 status remains the same for Tonga with no changes.”

“Tonga remains on the green level for COVID which is very satisfactory.”

Nomuka Health Centre

He said that the reconstruction of the Nomuka Health Centre is critical for the health service on the island, and the clearing of the land is completed.

The centre was damaged on 15 January, 2022 in the tsunami.

Death of doctor

The Minister also confirmed the sad news of the passing of Dr Tevita Vakasiuola last week. He was in charge of the hospital on Ha’apai.