KOROR (Island Times/Pacnews) — Palau health authorities have confirmed that two individuals tested positive for Covid-19.
The two individuals were identified as close contacts of the person who tested positive for Covid-19 on Sept. 10.
“Additional tests including PCR GeneXpert and Abbott ID have confirmed positive results. These individuals have been placed in isolation for an additional 10 days and will undergo further testing and monitoring,” the Ministry of Health and Human Services said.
It added that the Bureau of Public Health continues its contact tracing and investigation.
So far, five of the seven close contacts tested negative but will remain under quarantine before undergoing further testing after 10 days.
The health ministry said the individuals are fully vaccinated: one is asymptomatic while another has mild symptoms.
These two identified cases are classified as travel cases and there is no suspected community transmission, the health ministry stated.
Palau Vice President Jerrlyn Uduch Sengebau Senior said the government continues to ask the public to be patient.
“When 9/11 happened 20 years ago, it changed the way we travel. It was inconvenient at that time and we didn’t want it, now it is normal,” she said.
“That is the new normal that we are asking understanding for at this time.”
She noted that “the system works — people are tested and if positive… they go to isolation. We are protected, and we are safe.”
The vice president added, “Let’s be patient and know that were are protected because the number regarding our vaccination rate is now at 89%.”
