NZ and WHO lauds the COVID-19-free Solomon Islands

The New Zealand Government has joined the World Health Organization and the Australian Government to congratulate Solomon Islands for having the ability to test for COVID-19 locally.

This comes after the recent arrival of the GeneXpert P-C-R cartridges.

The New High Commission Office in Honiara yesterday issued the statement, saying these specialized cartridges can be used in existing tuberculosis machines.

It says this testing capability is a useful interim solution ahead of the more sensitive Q-P-C-R machines becoming operational.

It adds in-country testing is a vital tool for leaders and officials to address the challenge of COVID-19 and help to keep communities safe.