The FEMAT field hospital at Laucala Bay in Suva has begun its transition into a COVID-19 dedicated hospital.
Ministry of Health and Medical Services permanent secretary Dr James Fong highlighted this in his COVID-19 update last night.
Dr Fong said the ministry has set up an emergency number 165 for people with severe COVID-19 symptoms to contact if they cannot get to a hospital themselves.
“Sadly, we continue to see people with severe COVID-19 dying at home or coming to a medical facility in the late stages of severe illness and dying within a day or two,” Dr Fong said.
“Severe COVID-19 is a medical emergency and a delay in receiving appropriate medical treatment may result in a higher risk of death,” he said.
Dr Fong said Fijians need to know the severe symptoms of COVID-19, which include:
- Difficulty breathing
- Persistent pain or pressure in the chest
- Severe headache for a few days
- New confusion, inability to wake or stay awake; and
- Pale, gray, or blue-coloured skin, lips or nail beds.
“If you or a loved one have any of these symptoms please go immediately to your nearest medical facility or call 165 if unable to get to a medical facility.”
