As of May 26, Tokelau stands as the second-to-last country globally to encounter community spread of the virus, with Turkmenistan being the only remaining country with no reported cases, according to the World Health Organization. From May 15 to May 26, four cases of community transmission were reported in Nukunonu, the largest atoll in Tokelau.
Tokelau is currently under strict lockdown following the emergence of its initial instances of Covid-19 within the local community. According to Aukusitino Vitale, the General Manager of the Tokelau Government, preparations were made in anticipation of the virus eventually reaching Tokelau.
In addition to the four community cases in Nukunonu, one case was detected at the border and two were recorded among individuals arriving at the border in Fakaofo.
Vitale explained that the initial border case arrived on the Lady Samoa ferry along with more than 70 other individuals on Sunday, May 14. The passengers made stops at Atafu and Fakaofo, and upon disembarking in Nukunonu, all tested negative on the first day. However, on the third day, a 48-year-old male tested positive for the virus. A week later, on Sunday, May 21, the man’s son also tested positive, marking the first instance of community transmission in Tokelau.
Vitale, who was present on the voyage, mentioned that the five-day lockdown, which is currently in effect solely in Nukunonu, is set to conclude on May 28, based on local time.
He reassured the community, stating, “Be courageous, as our high herd immunity rate is proving beneficial in dealing with the positive cases. Symptoms have been similar to the flu, with fever being the most challenging one, but overall, people are recovering.”
The imposed restrictions have resulted in the closure of Matiti School in Nukunonu, as well as all government offices. Essential services such as the hospital, co-op store, and finance departments remain operational, with special measures in place to minimize movement within the village.
Individuals are permitted to tend to their livestock between the hours of 7 am and 9 am.
