COVID-19 pandemic

Bank Outlines COVID Protocols

In response to the Deputy Pandemic Controller, Dr Daoni Esorom’s concern over long commercial bank queues, Kina Bank highlighted that it continues to adhere to the COVID-19 protocols and the “Niupela Pasin” measure set up by the government.

Inflation Rises Due To Pandemic

At the same time, some major economies continue to provide fiscal support to sustain recovery efforts, while the emerging market and developing economies have reduced fiscal support as a direct result of rising public debt levels. 

Moreover, some central banks have opted to raise policy rates to curb the threat of rising inflation. 

“Returning Students Must Be Tested”

Director of Curative Health Services, Dr Max Manape confirmed that so far there were 10 fresh cases reported including an Omicron case.

“We have one confirmed Omicron case being admitted. The rest are COVID-19 cases of which six reported from Goroka Base, two in Henganofi and one in Daulo. The one Omicron case as we know from contact tracing, originated from South Africa where the carrier is a mine worker,” Dr. Manape said.

PMGH Donation Addresses Pandemic Surge

With kindness still in the world of Friends of POMGen, it has donated and also received materials on behalf of the Port Moresby General Hospital (PMGH) that will address the surge in the pandemic.

The PMGH recently received wonderful donations that are immensely important support to the staff and patients of the hospital.

Sakura Marine Ltd donated to the hospital 38,000 facemasks that will cater for all staff and patients during this pandemic surge.

Europe entering Covid pandemic 'ceasefire', says WHO

Dr Hans Kluge cited high vaccination rates, the end of winter and the less severe nature of the Omicron variant.

Speaking to reporters, he said: "This period of higher protection should be seen as a 'ceasefire' that could bring us enduring peace."

It comes as a number of European nations end Covid-19 restrictions.

Dr Kluge said some 12 million new virus cases were detected across Europe last week - the highest recorded - but officials have not seen a significant spike in those needing critical hospital care.

Omicron A Concern In PNG

In Papua New Guinea, a positive case was traced and diagnosed for the COVID-19 Omicron variant. According to National Pandemic Response Controller, David Manning, the man came to PNG last December after travelling from South Africa via London and Hong Kong.

However, Mr Manning said the man had to undergo testing while in quarantine and has fully recovered.

Upsurge In Positive Cases

Predictions were made last year, regarding a fourth surge to occur in March, however, traces were made of the fourth wave arising in Port Moresby.

PMGH has been tracking COVID positive rates from last year, through to this month, noting that there has been an increase since the third wave in September 2021.

In the past week alone, 250 tests were performed on patients, with results of about 150 positive cases from the testing activity.

PNG Games Deferred

There are numerus reasons for the deferral of the ‘Grassroots Games’ with incomplete facilities and the COVID-19 pandemic topping the list of reasons.

The PNG Games Council awarded the Games to SHP in 2016 in Kimbe through a bidding process, which was also contested by NCD and Eastern Highlands Province.

WHO To Continue Support

WHO Regional Director for Western Pacific, Dr Takeshi Kasai gave his word when visiting East New Britain today, Tuesday 14th December, 2021.

Accompanied by Health Minister and Gazelle MP, Jelta Wong, he was given a traditional welcome at Tokua Airport and met by the ENB Provincial Health Authority, Gazelle District and ENB provincial administration.

 “COVID-19 made us realize that health and people’s lives are connected. Health cannot see but we have to find a way to see it and maintain it to serve the community,” Dr Kasai said.

NSL Lauds Frontline Workers

These frontline workers include nurses, doctors, medical officers, teachers, police and correctional service officers who have continue to play a crucial role, in ensuring health, education and law and order services remain operational throughout PNG. 

“Nambawan Super congratulates our frontline workers in our towns and in remote parts of the country, for their commendable service. We recognise their efforts as they continue to serve under pressure with limited resources, staff shortage and even pay cuts in the toughest of times,” Nambawan Super Chairman, Reg Monagi said.