PNG to bring in antiviral drugs for Covid-19

Papua New Guinea is in discussion with its partners such as the UNICEF to help bring into the country two antiviral drugs for COVID-19.

These drugs have proven to prevent hospitalization and most  of the deaths associated with COVID-19. 

Deputy Controller of the National Pandemic Response Dr Daoni Esorom revealed this in a virtual media conference.

The drugs,  Molnuparivri and Paxlovid,  are both expensive but with the help of UN, these drugs will be purchased at a lower rate. 

 “We are looking at other options to support our people. If people do not want to get vaccination, they can get this,  but our people’s health-seeking behavior is that they do not seek help until late.’’

He also warned that the medicines would not be given to people who have not tested positive to COVID-19. 

Papua New Guinea has currently tested 263, 135 people in the country for COVID-19 which is low compared to its population. The national positivity is 14 per cent and the monthly average positivity is seven per cent. 

Dr Daoni said this means that even “even though our testing rate is low, we are still picking up high number of cases’’ unlike some countries. 

The conference also heard that it’s  now known that the surges in this country have occurred four to six months apart, and these have also occurred following some big celebrations and gatherings. 

The first one was from July – August 2020; the second was in February-March 2021; and the third one started in September and is still on, but the number of cases have gone down. 

The next surge is now anticipated in February – March after a lot of activities, including celebrations have occurred during the festive season. 

Dr Daoni is optimistic that the Provincial Health Authorities are better prepared with their emergency and surge plans to respond to the next surge when it occurs.  

Meanwhile, Dr Daoni has urged that people get vaccinated and follow the New Normal or Niupela Pasin to protect themselves and their loved ones against COVID-19. 

As of 7th December, 2021, a total of 279, 220 people (14.9 per cent of the target population)  in PNG have at least got one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine. The total number of people fully vaccinated is 211, 421 which is 11.3 per cent of the target population.

Statement

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