All incoming passengers to undergo strict screening

The Minister of Health and Welfare, Dr Kailesh Kumar Jagutpal, made this announcement, this afternoon, in Port Louis, at a press conference where he gave an overview of the current situation as regards of the novel Coronavirus.

As at date some 43 104 cases have been reported around the world, with 1 018 deaths.

Minister Jagutpal pointed out that in view of the situation Government is putting emphasis on surveillance, detection and prevention both at the airport and port. Prior to the press conference, the Minister met several stakeholders, namely from the Central Water Authority, Central Electricity Board, Banks and the transport sector to discuss about sensitising the population on the precautionary measures to be taken regarding the Coronavirus. Pamphlets and brochures are also being distributed, he added.

Speaking about the preventive measures, Minister Jagutpal stated that a provision of some 10 000 N95 masks has been made.  He also indicated that as date 57 people have been placed in quarantine, 28 at New Souillac Hospital and 29 at Anse-La-Raie Youth Centre.  

With regard to the 12 students who are presently quarantined in France, he underlined that they are in good health, have already undergone two tests and will be put through a last one soon. If all the three tests are negative, he said, they will able to leave France for Mauritius. As for the two Mauritians on board the Princess Diamond cruise in Japan, Dr Jagutpal said that they are in good health.

He appealed to all stakeholders to collaborate closely while adding that the support of each and everyone is needed to raise awareness on the Coronavirus.