An increase in “flu-like illness” has been detected in Honiara over the last two weeks during the Pacific Games, which ended Saturday.

It’s caused by what health authorities say were influenza and COVID-19 viruses.

“This flu-like illness was detected by our hardworking medical staff on the ground stationed at various satellite clinics and urban health clinics in and around Honiara, including at the NRH,” Dr Gregory Jilini of the Ministry of Health says.

“Daily surveillance is being conducted by our our team on the ground to ensure the health and well-being of athletes, delegates from the region and Honiara residents is protected,” Jilin, who is also the acting Incidence Controller, added.

“Data collected over the past 2 weeks has seen an increase in the influenza-like illness.

“We are working with our partners to ensure the situation is managed and under control.”

The Ministry says influenza and COVID-19 are not new viruses for the Solomon Islands however they are known to easily spread during mass gathering events and can cause large increases of flu-like illnesses. 

“Flu-like illness spreads easily through infected people when they cough or sneeze, and the most common symptoms include fever, dry cough, body aches, runny nose, and sore throat. 

“Additional symptoms for COVID-19 also include loss of smell, loss of taste, and breathing difficulty. 

“These symptoms may appear 2-14 days after being exposed to the virus.”

To help reduce the risk of exposure and transmission of the illness, the public is advised to observe the following:

• Wash your hands frequently with soap and water or a hand sanitizer, especially after going to the toilets; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick with flu-like symptoms (fever, cough).
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue/cloth or your sleeves (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing. 
• Throw the tissue in proper bins immediately after use and perform hand hygiene.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning disinfectant such as household bleach.
• Isolate yourself away from your loved ones at home especially, babies and young children, the elderly and disabled people, when sick with flu-like symptoms.
• Wear a mask when going out in public places. 
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue/cloth or your sleeves when coughing or sneezing
• For those who will be travelling back to your provinces and countries outside of Solomon Islands, please monitor yourself for any symptoms and notify your health authorities.