The Prime Minister Hon James Marape, MP has warned citizens from stigmatizing persons infected by the corona (COVID-19) virus in the country.   

He said the announcement that a 44 year old woman in Kokopo of East New Britain province has been infected by the virus should not shock everyone. 

 “She is taken care of and her footprint is being mapped so that the appropriate care is provided as far as medical attention is concerned. 

 “It is a genuine cause for concern for us and we will establish her source of contact and the impact of that case on our people in Kokopo and other areas in East New Britain province,” he said. 

 “We don’t need to be afraid of the Corona virus as many of those who have contracted or were infected by the virus have recovered or are recovering,” said Prime Minister Marape. 

 He said the 21 Provincial Response Teams in the provinces will be assisted by the National Operations Centre (NOC) with support from international partners like the World health Organization (WHO) and others. 

 Prime Minister Marape urged the people again to isolate themselves and remain in their villages and homes. 

 “The East New Britain Provincial Response Team has taken the issue on board and is stepping up the response to contain it from spreading. 

 Prime Minister Marape said the person with the second case is not a danger to society and virus can be cured. 

 He said the National Operations Centre on COVID-19 has spoken to her and she is healthy and is doing well. 

 The Prime Minister has urged every one not to offend and criticize those other infected persons. 

 “Today is not a time to be careless and hurtful to each other. 

 “Some-one who is tested positive to corona is not a threat to society so remain calm and patient. 

 “We will get through this and once again I appeal to our citizens to isolate yourself and stop unnecessary movements,’’ he said. 

 “The first line of defense and number one contribution by our citizens is isolation. 

 “Just isolate yourselves and from each other and stay home’’. 

 Ends