Vanuatu Reports First COVID-19 Case Since Outbreak Began

The small South Pacific island nation of Vanuatu has reported its first coronavirus infection since the pandemic began.

The asymptomatic case was a 23-year-old man who returned to the island on November 4 after traveling to the US, Vanuatu’s health ministry said Tuesday.

He tested positive during a routine screening on the fifth day of his quarantine.

“Physical distancing and personal protection measures were applied and maintained during the flight, throughout the arrival process, during transport to and during registration at the quarantine facility,” the ministry said in a press release.

The patient will remain in isolation until health clearance is given, the ministry added.