“LET’S enjoy the games as safely and responsibly as possible,” said Commonwealth Healthcare Corporation Chief Executive Officer Esther L. Muna, referring to the 2022 Pacific Mini Games which the CNMI will host on June 17-25.
She said while the CNMI is at Covid-19 Community Level Low, the influx of visitors may present an opportunity for an increase in transmission.
“While we have a high vaccination rate here in the CNMI and a supply of Covid-19 therapeutics, we should act with precaution as we are seeing a slight increase in Covid-19 community cases,” she added.
The Mini Games are expected to bring in more than 1,800 visitors from around the Pacific.
Efforts to mitigate Covid-19 transmission conducted before, during, and after the period of the Mini Games include daily self-swab antigen Covid-19 testing by participants, establishing hand-washing stations at all venue areas, environmental health inspections and implementation of mitigation efforts for identified deficits, and promotion of good handwashing and other healthy behaviors.
CHCC is reminding the public that attending a gathering or event increases the chance of being in close contact with people outside of one’s household and being exposed to Covid-19.
Individuals who are considered immunocompromised or at high risk of severe illnesses should avoid crowded places where they cannot stay six feet away from others, CHCC said.
Consider using a self-test before joining gatherings with others who do not live in your household, CHCC said.
If you come into close contact with someone with Covid-19, get tested 5 days after your last close contact, monitor your symptoms, tell your close contacts that they may have been exposed to Covid-19 so they can quarantine, get tested, and wear a well-fitting mask, CHCC said.
Stay home and do not attend gatherings if you test positive, even if you do not have symptoms, CHCC added.
For more information, call the Governor’s Covid-19 Task Force Infoline at (670) 488-0211, available every day, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., or visit www.staysafecnmi.com
