Fiji on Sunday announced to tighten measures to contain the spread of the Omicron variant of Covid-19 in the South Pacific island country.
Speaking at a joint press conference with Fiji’s health ministry and police, Minister for Commerce, Trade, Tourism and Transport Faiyaz Koya said that with a rapid spread of the Omicron variant confirmed in the country, the key measures against Covid-19 should be tightened to contain the variant’s transmission.
According to the minister, people who fail to comply with the health protocols over Covid-19 will face fines from Monday.
The minister said those who fail to wear a mask in the required settings will be fined 250 Fijian dollars (about 117 US dollars). For the failure to conduct temperature checks, the fine for individuals will be 250 Fijian dollars (about 117 US dollars), and 1,000 Fijian dollars (about 468.6 US dollars) for businesses.
High-risk businesses failing to verify vaccination status will face 1,000 Fijian dollars (about 468.6 U.S. dollars) in fines.
Among other measures to be strengthened From Monday, group sizes for gatherings in homes, communities, and community halls will be limited to 20 persons.
Koya said the authorities will not hesitate to fine people or shut down businesses including hotels if necessary.
The minister also urged Fijians to take the booster shots of the Covid-19 vaccine.
