A suspected bacterial infection case that prompted concern earlier this month has been confirmed as a false alarm, says Assistant Minister for Health Penioni Ravunawa.
Mr Ravunawa said the 41-year-old woman assessed at Nuffield Health Centre tested negative for meningococcal infection.
He said measures taken on February 12 and 13 were precautionary infection-control protocols, not a quarantine, with staff using protective equipment while the patient was assessed.
“There is no continuing risk to the public,” Mr Ravunawa said.
“The public should be assured that normal services have continued and there is no ongoing threat.”
Mr Ravunawa also used the incident to remind communities about health risks linked to sharing utensils during social gatherings, particularly the communal use of kava bowls and cups, which can contribute to the spread of bacterial infections.
He urged members of the public to exercise caution and adopt safer practices to minimise future health risks.
