How is the Ministry of Health monitoring for COVID-19 in Vanuatu?
During an outbreak where a disease is being spread in the community, the Ministry of
Health will conduct disease surveillance. Disease surveillance is the continuous, systematic
collection, analysis and interpretation of health-related data. It is used to detect, confirm,
and manage cases of COVID-19.
What are some of activities undertaken as part of disease surveillance?
If someone is interviewed or tested it does not necessarily mean they have COVID-19. A laboratory test is required to confirm a COVID-19 case.
For detailed information please see our
How is Testing for COVID-19 conducted in Vanuatu?
The most accurate test to diagnose COVID-19 is a molecular test (referred to often as a PCR
test), this is done in the laboratory and needs a specimen that is collected using a swab from
the back of the nose and throat.
Since March 2022, rapid antigen tests (RATS) have also been used in Vanuatu to identify
people with COVID-19. RATs are tests that can be conducted at the point-of-care (such as, in
a health clinic) and do not need a specimen to be sent to a laboratory. It provides a result in
about 15 minutes.
RATS worked best when people are showing symptoms, and the Ministry of Health suggests
they are only used with people that have symptoms. They can also be used for targeted
purposes, such as workplace screening for people without testing but this is not
encouraged.
Who will be tested for COVID-19 in Vanuatu?
All people admitted to hospital should be tested, using a PCR test, even if they do not have
symptoms of COVID-19. If they develop symptoms during hospitalisation, they should be
tested again.
At health clinics, only people that have symptoms are recommended to be tested using
RATs.
People entering Vanuatu will be tested during their period of quarantine.
Some people require testing in order to travel to another country, and these people can
access testing at VCH.
Where can I get more information?