What's the government response timeline for Papua New Guinea?

Monitoring and collecting of health declaration forms of arriving passengers at the Jacksons International Airport starting 27 January 2020; https://www.health.gov.pg/covid19/PNGSR2P2019n-CoV%282020-01-29%29.pdf

27th January Government Facebook Page. “As of today, Papua New Guinea has NO case of novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV). But we remain vigilant in monitoring our points of entry. We urge the public to be responsible in the information they share and avoid rumors and misinformation.Here are some tips on how you can protect yourself & reduce risk from coronavirus infection” https://www.facebook.com/PNGNDOH/posts/2700007350082306

The Jacksons International Airport is the priority point of entry under monitoring. Some of the measures in place are starting 28 January 2020. o Providing advisory to all arriving passengers through the airline announcement. o Screening and filling up of health declaration forms of all arriving passengers. o Screening of passengers and requiring medical clearance before they board the aircraft in Hong Kong, Singapore and Manila. o A Health Desk is operational at the Jacksons International Airport. Health staff are positioned as soon as passengers disembark (before Customs) and they also check travellers with history of travel to Wuhan, China. o Protocol for isolation and quarantine of patients is being drafted. o Advisory to airlines operators for measures in case a passenger gets sick on board an aircraft. AND People on ships at international ports to be screened for COVID-19: https://www.facebook.com/PNGNDOH/posts/2701616143254760; https://www.health.gov.pg/covid19/PNGSR2P2019n-CoV%282020-01-29%29.pdf

On 29th January, 2020 PNG issued its second report on Papua New Guinea situation update which mentions no restrictions on gatherings https://www.health.gov.pg/subindex.php?news=1

Ban on entry of people who have been in Wuhan. People who have been in China in past 14 days require medical certification that they do not have COVID-19. https://ica.gov.pg/uploads/media/public_notice_1577386-refusal-of-entry-for-travellers-from-the-asian-ports2.pdf

Papua New Guinea late on Tuesday announced it would ban travellers from "Asian countries", with the health department conceding that it would struggle to cope if there was a local outbreak of the coronavirus. It also said citizens and residents returning from "Asian countries" would be quarantined for two weeks, and the land border with Indonesia would also be closed. This measure took effect January 30th; https://www.abc.net.au/radio-australia/programs/pacificbeat/png-steps-up-response-to-coronavirus-outbreak/11908988; https://www.rnz.co.nz/international/pacific-news/408402/pacific-countries-already-hard-hit-by-epidemics-take-extreme-coronavirus-measures

Public signage at airport, as seen in Health Department Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/PNGNDOH/posts/2707177659365275?__tn__=-R

On 31st January, 2020 issued updated report but it does not mention of restriction on gatherings. https://www.health.gov.pg/covid19/PNGSR3P2019n-CoV(2020-01-31).pdf

Health Department tries to crowd source contact with telecommunication companies to help with sending text messages about coronavirus prevention. See this Facebook post: https://www.facebook.com/PNGNDOH/posts/2708217102594664?__tn__=-R. Media release from Health Minister about WHO declaration of a Public Health Emergency of International Concern: https://www.facebook.com/PNGNDOH/posts/2708030662613308?__tn__=K-R

Preparedness measures have started to be implemented, including screening of passengers at Jacksons International Airport, surveillance and contact tracing, preparation for the transport and isolation of suspected cases, training of clinicians and laboratory testing. https://www.who.int/docs/default-source/wpro---documents/countries/papua-new-guinea/png-situation-report-03-on-covid-19-(2020-01-31)-final.pdf?sfvrsn=1ca7d411_2

Public health advice via Facebook page of PNG Health Department: https://www.facebook.com/PNGNDOH/posts/2710157202400654?__tn__=-R

Health Minister's media statement about minimising COVID-19 risk: https://www.facebook.com/PNGNDOH/photos/a.1838912906191759/2723429207740120/?type=3&theater

The new report issued on 11th February, which only mentions about avoiding contact with people having symptoms. https://www.health.gov.pg/subindex.php?news=1

On 14th February, an updated report was issued which mentions no restrictions. https://www.health.gov.pg/subindex.php?news=1

On February 14, the Minister for Health and HIV/AIDS Hon. Jelta Wong issued a declaration (based on Quarantine Act, 1953 and Public Health Act, 1973) denying entry into Papua New Guinea all persons who have travelled to mainland China (Designated Region) unless they have spent 14 consecutive days in a country outside of the designated region. https://www.health.gov.pg/covid19/PNGSR7PCOVID-19(2020-02-14).pdf

Deparment of Health sharing WHO advice on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PNGNDOH/posts/2748693781880329?__xts__%5B0%5D=68.ARAmujvfBrH129Urxioo9IolVtL8QvlIPlpzjKgx2ods41owfebK9SCyK8VIKmWxqEN6650d-q5t-dWiyCzcCp-lTLHVHOU6VL7hLYS_wHEksOc2Et9eRuiXKVbW2R5p1FUZVUi-BN6Gkldya7qgt54etyaj6IJiTjHOVpfJr19DGkTo-3MAByjd5ts02gOb6vBq6nJEPWgbnTh1mPhcThde7z8paveQkwyNsBIH_mruj-Nw66zVqUUIpW5X79S3mgTR8EWCSrEz2Y1I8Gvl4j--kisCN8mPrLMQPIhrQHo_xjaTkgN-t7OzSOENufPrKBL_yRUMySI3FxcjjYYs-lOq&__tn__=-R

Department of Health dispelling rumours about COVID-19 cases via Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PNGNDOH/posts/2753216258094748?__xts__[0]=68.ARBPvf_n3tEZMr7EWkoW9uD7QoH12QTnYrl7aHlgjXVbyX6IIYcciSVOizTHdYTelN0yIuLk-luwlmNoNaaamhRimIMdRsvzOKlJ8S3Fx1wIgsYdbx21DJqPWfV5RY-HTrgyPbpmsM5ZDQHTNiILla7BiD_mzN9l_FTphZmtU1Kr2VwDeAyX2DuIC7SST2semlrPDVwI_AmwnTUNBzdWUfbzjk-aN-kWohdVYDoxuE2mMjfBam-3I3yioEpZnSJlnAvZvlqkZhshRueNQwR-R9obZhcWBU5eEG4fa0_h2v8LMHOFp7QThwd88FUyCE5wPqSi2xR6CCI0GG2GlWWmwJULoZ5w&__tn__=-R

No mention of restrictions in updated report issued on 25th Feburary, 2020. https://www.health.gov.pg/subindex.php?news=1

No mention of restriction in updated report issued on 28th February, 2020 https://www.health.gov.pg/subindex.php?news=1

Public health advice via Facebook page of PNG Health Department: https://www.facebook.com/PNGNDOH/posts/2769675303115510?__tn__=-R

Public health messaging via Facebook page of Minister for Health & HIV/AIDS, Jelta Wong: https://www.facebook.com/jeltawongmp/posts/608947309692010?__tn__=-R and Department of Health's Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/PNGNDOH/posts/2793143067435400?__xts__%5B0%5D=68.ARBCxyaXQc8gaVZZEB5Q1xTElsso57JA3FzI8nZ7gsNmEcQ4ZWw64AW6x6nYgziI5ugrZs0MixUQRuF2ImZjWCpCkz1N3Kp-6wdoUvI9Shib08KXuYqqDdNnwFen44oKtDd6QUdK4HCF491lQs7JLkba6aPETYEqoPwkEPv1bXEm5FcCPm_TV9jScaGI-2kMftAcDdA_1Ze-B5XNVEy8prb9CYQvVVNFNAXtfmuUFbxbD6Dquc1Udc2Cyj8tPVS9LdnMtPDhNZXZl39RENE39PTj9SFE4jyhEi3P_K1Ts3kwQ1ImX-hTxwpRRiLgVc-wX2pzd-UxewkGalYx5i50h6wPCD6n&__tn__=-R

It does not mention about any restrictions in new report issued on 13th March. https://www.health.gov.pg/subindex.php?news=1

The state of emergency was announced on 23rd March which was extended on 2nd April.But there is no requirement to stay at home link : https://www.health.gov.pg/subindex.php?news=1file:///Users/zilehuma/Downloads/PNGCOVID-19HSR15(2020-04-04)%20(3).pdf

National airline ceases carrying passengers on inbound flights: http://www.looppng.com/business/air-niugini-bans-international-passengers-90818

Immediate ban was announced on gathering of more than 100 people. http://www.looppng.com/png-news/immediate-ban-%E2%80%98gatherings-over-100-persons%E2%80%99-90849

Quote: "As of March 21, all inbound international travel to Papua New Guinea is restricted, with specific and case-by-case exceptions for crew, diplomats, health workers, and other critical personnel." "As of March March 23, all domestic air travel within Papua New Guinea is prohibited." Link: https://pg.usembassy.gov/covid-19-information/

PM Statement (8): Education and Higher Education departments ordered to move up school holidays to the 23rd of March, with the next 14 days being school holidays. https://covid19.info.gov.pg/files/Official%20Statement%20from%20PM%20-%20220320.pdf.pdf

Among other things, the SOE gives the government the power to control the movement of people, vehicles, and goods; maintain and regulate transport; and regulate or prohibit use of public roads. The emergency lockdown, which prevents the movement of people between provinces and puts restrictions on international flights, will only last for 14 days, subject to an extension of another 14 days. All schools and universities have shut for two weeks starting on 23 March. https://devpolicy.org/covid-19-the-situation-so-far-and-challenges-for-png-20200327/

With the shutdown ordered by the prime minister starting on March 24, all non-essential workers of businesses and public institutions are ordered to stay home for 14 days. However, since this is not necessarily a closure of all non-essential *workplaces* (In fact, department heads are specifically adressed and it is implied that they should go to work), coded as 2G; https://covid19.info.gov.pg/files/Official%20Statement%20from%20PM%20-%20220320.pdf.pdf

The detailed notes for the lockdown procedures note that "- All spreading false rumours and organising public gatherings will be charged appropriately." Therefore, this is coded as 2G. https://covid19.info.gov.pg/files/PM'S COVID-19-SOE UPDATE 2 -230320.pdfn (not archivable)

Quote: "Mr Marape said as part of the state of emergency all domestic flights in the country would be grounded from tomorrow and all public transportation on the country's roads are asked to cease operations." Link: https://www.rnz.co.nz/international/pacific-news/412357/coronavirus-png-announces-lockdown-solomons-closes-border-to-non-citizens Lockdown extended (Link): https://www.garda.com/crisis24/news-alerts/329111/papua-new-guinea-nationwide-state-of-emergency-due-to-covid-19-extended-through-june-1-update-3

PM announces ban on people moving between provinces: "We direct that as of Tuesday 24th March 2020, no Public transportation of people and no movement from one province to another for a 14 day period. Only approved cargo and medicine and police /military personal will be moving." Also, "No border crossing by foot or canoe and police /army presence in border areas will be stepped up." And "Following on our stop of incoming international flights, we now stopping all domestic flights for the next 14 days starting on Tuesday this week." https://covid19.info.gov.pg/files/Official%20Statement%20from%20PM%20-%20220320.pdf.pdf

Among other things, the SOE gives the government the power to control the movement of people, vehicles, and goods; maintain and regulate transport; and regulate or prohibit use of public roads. The emergency lockdown, which prevents the movement of people between provinces and puts restrictions on international flights, will only last for 14 days, subject to an extension of another 14 days. All schools and universities have shut for two weeks starting on 23 March. Non-essential services are shut, including most government departments, the courts and small businesses. The only exceptions are essential services such as banks, hospitals and shopping malls. https://devpolicy.org/covid-19-the-situation-so-far-and-challenges-for-png-20200327/

People who came into contact with the country's only known case were tested, but there is a shortage of test kits https://www.rnz.co.nz/international/pacific-news/412653/png-faced-with-limited-number-of-covid-testing-kits

From 24th March people are prohibited from travelling from one province to another for a 14 day period (until 7th April) See Archived PM statement: https://covid19.info.gov.pg/files/Official%20Statement%20from%20PM%20-%20220320.pdf.pdf

Prudential requirements will be relaxed to cover the three months’ loan repayment holiday, namely the Prudential Standards relating to asset quality, capital adequacy and loan loss provisioning. All banks have agreed to a 3-month loan repayment moratorium. https://home.kpmg/xx/en/home/insights/2020/04/papua-new-guinea-government-and-institution-measures-in-response-to-covid.html; https://covid19.info.gov.pg/files/01-04-2020/01042020_BPNG%20Public%20Notice.pdf (not archivable) https://covid19.info.gov.pg/files/03-04-2020/PMs%2520statement%2520to%2520Parliament%25202%2520april.pdf (not archivable)

National Emergency Order 2, which took effect on 2/4/20, stipulated that gambling venues, night clubs and sporting venues were to close for the duration of the national emergency. It ordered that "essential services" remain open, including supermarkets, telecommunication providers, fuel stations, health services, banks, manufacturers and more. All other service providers were ordered to implement safe work practices. Since this order states that workers are allowed to stay home if they are non-essential, but doesn't require the shuttering of workplaces per se, coded as 2G. Archived order: https://covid19.info.gov.pg/files/02-04-2020/National%20Emergency%20Order%20No.2%20Business%20Operations%20&%20Socila%20Gatherings.pdf

Ban on gatherings of over 100 people stipulated in this order from 2/4/20, archived: https://covid19.info.gov.pg/files/02-04-2020/National%20Emergency%20Order%20No.2%20Business%20Operations%20&%20Socila%20Gatherings.pdf

The government made an announcement on 2nd April regarding provision of financial support to the employees who have lost their jobs due to COVID-19 from superannuation funds. However, there is no information available in terms of its implementation so far and how eligible individuals can apply for this support. https://postcourier.com.pg/superfunds-official-response-still-unknown/

Commercial banks agreed to provide loan repayment holidays to affected households and businesses for three months (a package estimated at PGK 600 million). See World Bank PNG Economic Update, archived https://www.worldbank.org/en/country/png/publication/papua-new-guinea-in-the-time-of-covid-19---from-relief-to-recovery

Referring to point 3 in PM's statement on 20th March: Declare a State of Emergency starting 24th March, and Point 5 refers to lockdown, and hence there will not be any events, by default. ttps://web.archive.org/web/20200503221724/ https://covid19.info.gov.pg/files/Official%20Statement%20from%20PM%20-%20220320.pdf.pdf

National Emergency Order 9, that came into effect 7/4/20, stipulated that 25-30-seater public transport may continue to operate during the national emergency with a maximum of 15 passengers; all other public transport may operate provided each vehicle/vessel has 5 fewer passengers than its usual capacity; licensed taxis can operate with maximum 2 passengers. Archived order: https://covid19.info.gov.pg/files/07-04-2020/SOE%20Order/Emergency%20Orders%209.pdf

The general lockdown was lifted on April 06 after 14 days. However, Papua New Guinea (PNG) registered a second positive case of COVID-19 on Monday, which triggered a lockdown of the entire East New Britain (ENB) province where the patient was registered. As a result of the discovery of the second patient , the Controller has issued directives to: * Lockdown of the entire East New Britain Province for the next 21 Days. * Restrict commercial flights and shipping in and out of East New Britain with exception of cargoes and medical/health personnel only. * Mount road blocks between East and West New Britain Provinces. https://covid19.info.gov.pg/index.php/2020/04/08/controller-manning-issues-11-emergency-orders-to-assist-government-response-to-covid-19/; http://www.xinhuanet.com/english/2020-04/07/c_138954263.htm

According to the document uploaded on 12th April, 2020 on website of Health Department, the schools will remain closed until 27th April, 2020. Archived: https://www.health.gov.pg/covid19/PNGSR16PCOVID-19%282020-04-12%29.pdf

National Emergency Order #13 enforces a nighttime curfew (8pm-6am) with very few exceptions in all areas with a positive test, starting on Apr 8. Currently, two provinces affected. https://covid19.info.gov.pg/files/10-04-2020/National%20Emergency%20Orders%20No.13.pdf (not archivable)

In regards to opening up of our domestic travel destinations, it is a gradual process as we ensure all ports and airlines have taken necessary precautions to eliminate the potential of spreading COVID 19. Apart from the ports of Lae, Hagen, Madang and Port Moresby all other ports are cleared to operate throughout the course of THIS Week. This is with the strict exception to Wewak, Vanimo, Daru, Kiunga, and Tabubil , and Tokua. https://covid19.info.gov.pg/index.php/2020/04/07/domestic-travel-destinations/ The PDF document (12th April, 2020) mentions about targeted movement , fixing number of passengers in buses, prohibiting some ships from some places, restricted domestic flight: https://www.health.gov.pg/covid19/PNGSR16PCOVID-19(2020-04-12).pdf

This document uploaded on 12th April on website of Ministry of health mentions about comprehensive public awareness campaigns https://www.health.gov.pg/subindex.php?news=1

The PDF document mentions about symptomatic testing. The document uploaded on 12th April can be found on this link of Ministry of Health of PNG. https://www.health.gov.pg/subindex.php?news=1

Churches and places of worship have been asked to minimize numbers to no more than 50 per service depending on the size of the worship. However, I am pleased to note that various churches have taken initiative be delivering their sermons over the various radio stations so that their congregations can continue to worship together but in their own homes. https://covid19.info.gov.pg/index.php/2020/04/10/emergency-orders-issued-to-protect-png-from-covid-19/ This link mentions that national parliament extended state of emergency on 2nd April for two months, banning all "mass gatherings", among other things. Archived: https://www.health.gov.pg/covid19/PNGSR16PCOVID-19%282020-04-12%29.pdf

Churches and places of worship have been asked to minimize numbers to no more than 50 per service depending on the size of the worship. However, I am pleased to note that various churches have taken initiative be delivering their sermons over the various radio stations so that their congregations can continue to worship together but in their own homes. https://covid19.info.gov.pg/index.php/2020/04/10/emergency-orders-issued-to-protect-png-from-covid-19/

THE CONTROLLER of the COVID-19 State of Emergency and Police Commissioner, David Manning, has issued an emergency order to all public transport operators to stop operating within Papua New Guinea during the Easter long weekend. This order follows a sequence of emergency orders aimed at heightening the level of safety and security measures around the country following the second confirmed COVID-19 case in the county on Monday 2 , April 2020. He said, “No public transport is to operate within Papua New Guinea from 11:59pm on Thursday 9 April 2020 until 6am on Tuesday 14, April 2020. https://covid19.info.gov.pg/index.php/2020/04/09/controller-orders-public-transport-to-stop-during-easter/

All provinces with the exception of Western province Sandaun and East Sepik and now East New Britain will continue to remain lock down and all the other provinces are free for the general public to move around. https://covid19.info.gov.pg/index.php/2020/04/08/update-from-the-controller-of-state-of-emergency-mr-david-manning/

This order follows a sequence of emergency orders aimed at heightening the level of safety and security measures around the country following the second confirmed COVID-19 case in the county on Monday 2 , April 2020. He said, “No public transport is to operate within Papua New Guinea from 11:59pm on Thursday 9 April 2020 until 6am on Tuesday 14, April 2020. Since the majority of April 14th therefore saw public transport operating, downgraded to 1G starting on April 14. https://covid19.info.gov.pg/index.php/2020/04/09/controller-orders-public-transport-to-stop-during-easter/

According to the document uploaded (on 12th April) on the website of the health ministry, the schools will remain closed till 27th April. https://www.health.gov.pg/covid19/PNGSR16PCOVID-19%282020-04-12%29.pdf

As per Emergency Order #16, all venues providing services such as religious services (including chruches), social clubs or sports are ordered to shut down (#13 in the source). https://covid19.info.gov.pg/files/16-04-2020/NCD%20and%20Western%20Confirmed%20Case%20EO.pdf

Emergency Order #16 limits gatherings in the Capital, Central Province and Western Province to 4. https://covid19.info.gov.pg/files/16-04-2020/NCD%20and%20Western%20Confirmed%20Case%20EO.pdf

Emergency Order #16 bans public transport in the Capital District, Central Province and Western Province. https://covid19.info.gov.pg/files/16-04-2020/NCD%20and%20Western%20Confirmed%20Case%20EO.pdf

This document uploaded on 12th April on the website of Ministry of health mentions about comprehensive public awareness campaigns Link: https://www.health.gov.pg/subindex.php?news=1

The news in Guardian mention Health Minister statement "After we receive a call we send a response team out to the area, they take a swab and then we send it off to the labs ". This shows that anyone having symptoms is being tested. https://www.theguardian.com/world/2020/apr/30/papua-new-guinea-png-health-minister-covid-19-coronavirus-ppe

PM of PNG Marape said work colleagues of the Port Moresby case were being tested for the virus and rapid response teams were in Western Province doing contact tracing from the cases . This shows contact tracing exists.there. https://www.canberratimes.com.au/story/6728062/png-coronavirus-cases-now-at-seven/?cs=14264

8pm-am https://covid19.info.gov.pg/files/16-04-2020/NCD%20and%20Western%20Confirmed%20Case%20EO.pdf https://covid19.info.gov.pg/files/16-04-2020/NCD%20and%20Western%20Confirmed%20Case%20EO.pdf

Domestic flights within PNG are prohibited https://covid19.info.gov.pg/files/16-04-2020/NCD%20and%20Western%20Confirmed%20Case%20EO.pdf

Some exceptions like public transport, restaurants are opened https://covid19.info.gov.pg/files/16-04-2020/NCD%20and%20Western%20Confirmed%20Case%20EO.pdf

Some exceptions like place of local worships are opened with precautions. https://covid19.info.gov.pg/files/16-04-2020/NCD%20and%20Western%20Confirmed%20Case%20EO.pdf

Restaurants , local places of worships and public transport is opened so there is no total confinementThe curfew within NCD, Central and Western Province will be amended to 10pm to 5am. https://covid19.info.gov.pg/files/16-04-2020/NCD%20and%20Western%20Confirmed%20Case%20EO.pdf

National Emergency Order #22 bans travel to and from the Western and Sandaun Provinces, starting on Apr 25; https://covid19.info.gov.pg/files/26-04-2020/EO%2022%20International%20and%20Domestic%20Travel.pdf

Health Department notice detailing quarantine rules that apply from 25 April: "Continued restrictions on all incoming international flights, with enhanced compliance for quarantine: (1) For PNG Citizens and Permanent Residents returning to PNG by aircraft, there are designated hotels for quarantine in Port Moresby at the individual’s cost, in addition to the designated facility provided by the Government’s; (2) All non-PNG Citizens and non Permanent Residents returning to PNG by aircraft must be quarantined at a designated hotel in Port Moresby at the individual’s cost; and (3) Foreign diplomats travelling on diplomatic travel document or diplomatic passport must self-quarantine at an appropriate residence, non-adherence shall be declared a persona non grata." Archived statement: https://www.health.gov.pg/covid19/PNGSR19PCOVID-19(2020-05-03).pdf

Air Niugini’s domestic flights are now open for domestic travel to all airports in PNG except for the eight airports of Daru, Kiunga, Wewak, Vanimo, Tabubil, Lihir, Buka and Kieta. https://covid19.info.gov.pg/index.php/2020/04/26/updated-domestic-air-travel-requirements/

PM statement ;Universities throughout the country will resume classes next Monday 27 April 2020, while primary and secondary schools will begin classes, on Monday 4 May on a trial basis. https://covid19.info.gov.pg/index.php/2020/04/24/prime-minister-announces-resumption-of-universities-and-schools/

National Emergency Orders number 16 and 17, issued 16/4/20 and 17/4/20 respectively, stipulate curfews for the residents of National Capital District and Western Province. The overnight curfew (initially 8pm-6am, changed to 9pm-6am) is said to apply until 30/4/20 unless extended by the Emergency Controller. Archived order 16: https://covid19.info.gov.pg/files/16-04-2020/NCD%20and%20Western%20Confirmed%20Case%20EO.pdf Archived order 17: https://covid19.info.gov.pg/files/19-04-2020/National%20Emergency%20Order%20No.17%20-%20Amend%20curfew.pdf

"We continue to carry out contact tracing of persons of interests of the 7 cases in East New Britain. Western province , National Capital District and Eastern Highlands.As of today, we have identified and collected 745 contacts of the National Capital District case.In addition we have collected 584 samples of two confirmed cases in East New Britain and 246 in Western Province". https://covid19.info.gov.pg/index.php/2020/04/28/deputy-controller-acting-secretary-for-health-dr-paison-dakulala-statement/

National Emergency Order 29, issued 29/4/20, stipulates restrictions for Western Province. The restrictions are to apply until the end of the national emergency. There is a ban on gatherings of more than 4 people in public places. Customary gatherings also restricted to a maximum of 4. Archived statement: https://covid19.info.gov.pg/files/May%202020/01052020/National%20Emergency%20Order%20No.%2029-Western%20Province-Restrictions.pdf

National Emergency Order 29 of 29/4/20 stipulates that residents of Western Province must adhere to a curfew between 10pm and 5am. National Emergency Order 27 of 29/4/20 stipulates that residents of East New Britain Province must also adhere to a curfew between 10pm and 5am. These curfews are to continue until the end of the national emergency, unless repealed by the Emergency Controller. Note, these curfews are in addition to curfews for residents of the National Capital District and Western Province, that were announced on 16 and 17 April and scheduled to finish on 30 April. Archived statement 29: https://covid19.info.gov.pg/files/May%202020/01052020/National%20Emergency%20Order%20No.%2029-Western%20Province-Restrictions.pdf Archived statement 27: https://covid19.info.gov.pg/files/May%202020/01052020/National%20Emergency%20Order%20No.%2027-ENB%20Provincial%20Restrictions.pdf

Emergency orders #27, 28, and 29 make no mention of public transport, therefore it is assumed that regulation went back to a 1G; https://covid19.info.gov.pg/files/May%202020/01052020/National%20Emergency%20Order%20No.%2028-NCD%26CentralProvince-Restrictions.pdf https://covid19.info.gov.pg/files/May%202020/01052020/National%20Emergency%20Order%20No.%2027-ENB%20Provincial%20Restrictions.pdf https://covid19.info.gov.pg/files/May%202020/01052020/National%20Emergency%20Order%20No.%2029-Western%20Province-Restrictions.pdf

National Emergency Order number 25, effective from 25/4/20, stipulates no persons may travel to or from Western Province, Sanduan Province, or East Sepik Province, except those from an authorised list. No flights are to operate to/from these provinces, nor movement of cargo. Flights to/from airports in other provinces are allowed. Archived statement: https://covid19.info.gov.pg/files/26-04-2020/National%20Emergency%20Order%20No.25-Internation%20and%20Domestic%20travel.pdf

National Emergency Order 32 of 1/5/20 stipulates the approved equipment that can be used to test for COVID-19. Archived statement: https://covid19.info.gov.pg/files/SOE%20Orders/National%20Emergency%20Order%20No.32-Testing%20machines.pdf National Emergency Order 30 of 1/5/20 stipulates that no COVID-19 test results shall be released by any person or organisation without the express written authorisation of the Emergency Controller. Archived statement: https://covid19.info.gov.pg/files/SOE%20Orders/National%20Emergency%20Order%20No.30-COVID-19%20Testing%20Restriction.PDF

The statement of Deputy Controller and acting secretary of health "We have tested more than 500 contacts of the two positive cases in the East New Britain Province. We have traced and tested 746 contacts of the NCD Index case, which I along with the Prime Minister, cabinet ministers and the Controller were part of the stat https://covid19.info.gov.pg/index.php/2020/05/02/update-on-pngs-covid-19-response/

Health Department document: "On 22 April, SOE Controller announced that the Universities and tertiary education resume on 27 April, Monday, and Primary and secondary schools resume on 4 May 2020." (p.6) Archived: https://www.health.gov.pg/covid19/PNGSR19PCOVID-19(2020-05-03).pdf https://covid19.info.gov.pg/files/28042020/Secretary%20Circular%20Instruction%205%20of%202020.pdf.pdf

All vehicles are required to limit passengers to 5 less than the maximum carrying capacity during the State of Emergency. Given the prevailance of minibusses and similar forms of transport, 1G is continued to be coded. https://covid19.info.gov.pg/files/May%202020/05052020/Emergency%20Direction%20-%20Public%20Transport%20%20.pdf (not archivable)

National Emergency Order 33 of 6/5/20 stipulates that only four authorised organisations can provide COVID-19 testing until the end of the national emergency. Archived: https://covid19.info.gov.pg/files/SOE%20Orders/National%20Emergency%20Order%20No.33-COVID-19%20Testing.pdf

National Emergency Order 25 of 13/5/20: "Flights to and from all airports are allowed, except as directed by the Controller." Archived: https://covid19.info.gov.pg/files/National%20Emergency%20Order/National%20Emergency%20Order%20No.35-Lifting%20Flight%20Restrictions.pdf [NB: This appears to refer to domestic flights, as the PNG border is still closed to foreign travellers.]

Basically no new measures were taken since 29 April, when the state of emergency was extended, and no news since 3 May, when the last MoH report was published. Update 26 May: https://www.rnz.co.nz/international/pacific-news/417522/png-authorities-worried-about-covid-19-situation-in-west-papua

I guess that the previous coder confused T with G? T refers to the fact that the measures are applicable only to some geographical part of the country. Basically no new measures were taken since 29 April, when the state of emergency was extended, and no news since 3 May, when the last MoH report was published. Update 26 May: https://www.rnz.co.nz/international/pacific-news/417522/png-authorities-worried-about-covid-19-situation-in-west-papua

Restrictions on internal movement were lifted on 13 May as stated by the previous coder, but the actual reason is the revoking of paragraph 18 of the order no. 25 which states that people are barred from travelling to and from the Western, Sandaun & East Sepik provinces.

National Emergency Order 37: Anyone hospitalised or displaying severe respiratory disease must be tested in the first 24h. https://covid19.info.gov.pg/files/National%20Emergency%20Order/National%20Emergency%20Order%20No.%2037-COVID%2019%20Surveillance%20%26%20Testing.pdf

Not totally sure if this is limited or comprehensive contact tracing: only 8 new cases have been detected in PNG, and there was probably contact tracing for these few cases, but it is also true that there are very few tests conducted. National Emergency Order 37: Where clusters are detected, authorities should test 5-10 people who have been visiting the affected place (church, village, etc.) https://covid19.info.gov.pg/files/National%20Emergency%20Order/National%20Emergency%20Order%20No.%2037-COVID%2019%20Surveillance%20%26%20Testing.pdf

Nationwide ban on gatherings above 100 still in place / reaffirmed by Emergency Order #2 (Emergency orders numbering was restarted on June 2nd). Certain other events are banned and sport gatherings are limited to 10 people (constituting a 3G); https://covid19.info.gov.pg/files/SOE%20Orders/New%20Orders/Emergency%20Order%20No.2-Business%26Social%20Final-02.06.20.pdf (not archivable)

Domestic travel not limited as of Jun 02, as per Emergency Order #2. https://covid19.info.gov.pg/files/SOE%20Orders/New%20Orders/Emergency%20Order%20No.3-International%26Domestic%20Travel-Amended-05.06.20.pdf (not archivable)

Licensed nightclubs, bookmakers and gambling venues may only operate on Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays. https://covid19.info.gov.pg/files/National%20Pandemic%20Measures/New%20Measures/New%20Pandemic%20Measures-1-8-22.06.20.pdf

An immediate ban on gatherings of over 100 people. https://covid19.info.gov.pg/files/National%20Pandemic%20Measures/New%20Measures/New%20Pandemic%20Measures-1-8-22.06.20.pdf

Schools are open according to UNESCO’s data Link: https://en.unesco.org/covid19/educationresponse

On June 22th the Office of the comproller has revoked All meseares issued under the national pandemic act. https://covid19.info.gov.pg/files/National%20Pandemic%20Measures/New%20Measures/New%20Pandemic%20Measures-1-8-22.06.20.pdf

On an announcenment on May 4th, from May 6th, all form pof public transpotation are adhere to the social distancing requirements, vehicles should carry 5 less passengers than their licensed capacity. https://covid19.info.gov.pg/files/May%202020/05052020/Emergency%20Direction%20-%20Public%20Transport%20%20.pdf (not archivable)

On June 22th the Office of the comproller has revoked All meseares issued under the national pandemic act. https://covid19.info.gov.pg/files/National%20Pandemic%20Measures/New%20Measures/New%20Pandemic%20Measures-1-8-22.06.20.pdf

According to the announcement of the controller on June 5th, internal travel by foot, vehicle and wessel between provides shall not be restricted except for special cases https://covid19.info.gov.pg/files/SOE%20Orders/New%20Orders/Emergency%20Order%20No.3-International%26Domestic%20Travel-Amended-05.06.20.pdf

The office of Controller communicated on May 17th that individual travellers can enter Papua New Guinea if they have a written exemption from the Controller and have tested negative for COVID-19 within a 7 day period prior to arrival. International visitors should apply for the exemption, anyone arriving must self-isolate in a government approved hotel for 14 days. https://covid19.info.gov.pg/files/May%202020/12052020/Quarantine%20Instructions%20International%20Travellers%202-11.05.20.pdf

On April 2, the PNG government announced a K5.6 billion economic stimulus package in the parliament. The government has announced K600 million credit line to support businesses and individuals in coordination with the banks and financial institutions, and K500 million support from superannuation savings to employees affected by the economic slowdown. Moreover, the government has allocated K500 million more to support health, security and economic sector. A supplementary budget to accommodate the extra health spending and cut in low priority expenditure which will be tabled in the parliament in July. https://www.imf.org/en/Topics/imf-and-covid19/Policy-Responses-to-COVID-19

To detect COVID-19 cases, the National Department of Health and NCC have issued enhanced testing guidance. All suspected COVID-19 cases must have sample collected and tested for COVID-19. These include any inpatient or outpatient pneumonia or SARI case. In addition, health facilities are being requested to collect at least 10 samples a day not only from suspected COVID-19 cases but from people presenting with influenza like illness or simple cough. https://www.who.int/docs/default-source/wpro---documents/countries/papua-new-guinea/covid-19/png-covid-19-health-situation-report-29.pdf?sfvrsn=d181bbe7_2

On 10 July, the total number of persons in quarantine (PIQs) is 248. Unfortunately, daily monitoring by NCC monitors was halted as they were on strike due to unpaid salaries. From 3 to 9 July, the average national daily COVID-19 surveillance reporting rate is only at 56%. https://www.who.int/docs/default-source/wpro---documents/countries/papua-new-guinea/covid-19/png-covid-19-health-situation-report-29.pdf?sfvrsn=d181bbe7_2

The document “Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Health Situation Report #30” uploaded to the Ministry of Health website on July 19th notes on page 6 that the Rapid Response Team of the National Capital District (NCD) started contact tracing on 16 July 2020 for 5 cases of COVID-19 in Port Moresby. 37 samples of immediate contacts of those infected have been collected, and the contacts are in quarantine. Investigation is ongoing. See the report under “Health Situation Report” on the Ministry of Health website, archived: https://www.health.gov.pg/subindex.php?news=1 (requires download).

On July 17th 2020, Prime Minister Hon James Marape launched the “Niupela Pasin” (New Way) communications strategy which is a “collection of information products that communicate the new normal of healthy behaviours for: individuals, families and communities; places of worship; health facilities; businesses, markets and shops; workplaces, banks and pharmacies; transportation; and, National Control Centre and other responders.” This information can be found on page 7 (under "Communication, Community Engagement and Non-Pharmaceutical Interventions (Social Measures) – NIUPELA PASIN") of the “Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Health Situation Report #30” uploaded to the Ministry of Health website on July 19th. See the report under “Health Situation Report” on the Ministry of Health website, archived: https://www.health.gov.pg/subindex.php?news=1 (requires download)

A document released on 27 July 2020 by Commissioner David Manning revokes all previous measures issued under the National Pandemic Act 2020. New measures also released on 27 July 2020 - although not to be actioned until specified dates - will be applicable to all parts of Papua New Guinea according to "provincial coordination measures" unless stipulated otherwise. See the National Pandemic Measures No. 1, "Revocation of All Previous Measures", archived: http://archive.vn/gq6hO A new targeted measure to come into effect on 28 July 2020: http://archive.vn/E6IxU

A document released on 27 July 2020 by Commissioner David Manning revokes all previous measures issued under the National Pandemic Act 2020. New measures also released on 27 July 2020 - although not to be actioned until specified dates - will be applicable to all parts of Papua New Guinea according to "provincial coordination measures" unless stipulated otherwise. See the National Pandemic Measures No. 1, "Revocation of All Previous Measures", archived: http://archive.vn/gq6hO A new targeted measure to come into effect on 29 July 2020: http://archive.vn/MLBDj

A document released on 27 July 2020 by Commissioner David Manning revokes all previous measures issued under the National Pandemic Act 2020. New measures also released on 27 July 2020 - although not to be actioned until specified dates - will be applicable to all parts of Papua New Guinea according to "provincial coordination measures" unless stipulated otherwise. See the National Pandemic Measures No. 1, "Revocation of All Previous Measures", archived: http://archive.vn/gq6hO A new targeted measure to come into effect on 28 July 2020: http://archive.vn/P14s1

A document released on 27 July 2020 by Commissioner David Manning revokes all previous measures issued under the National Pandemic Act 2020. New measures also released on 27 July 2020 - although not to be actioned until specified dates - will be applicable to all parts of Papua New Guinea according to "provincial coordination measures" unless stipulated otherwise. See the National Pandemic Measures No. 1, "Revocation of All Previous Measures", archived: http://archive.vn/gq6hO A new targeted measure to come into effect on 28 July 2020: http://archive.vn/EYeKh

The PNG's National Pandemic Act 2020 allowed taxis to operate from 29 July as long as "the driver and all passengers are wearing a Mask or Face Covering ..." http://archive.vn/MLBDj

The PNG government asks that, from 4 August, 1. Venues which "provide night club activities and services", and/or "only serve alcohol without food" to close until further notice; 2. "Venues or parts of venues that operate for the purpose of the sale and consumption of alcohol" and licensed bookmakers to operate subject to certain measures; 3. Boroko Market to close until further notice; and 4. All restaurants in the National Capital District to submit certain information to the government. http://archive.vn/E6IxU

The PNG government asks that, from 4 August, 1. Clubs and sporting matches not to allow spectators; 2. Local religious activities to operate following certain restrictions; and 3. Religious gatherings, including but not limited to, church gatherings and crusades not to occur. http://archive.vn/E6IxU

No gathering of over 50 persons can occur from 4 August. http://archive.vn/E6IxU

The PNG government asks that, from 4 August, all people in the National Capital District to stay home between 10pm and 5pm unless from essential purpose. http://archive.vn/E6IxU

Domestic flights and travel by foot, vehicle and vessel between Provinces are not restricted but should follow certain measures from 4 August, as required by the government. https://covid19.info.gov.pg/files/National%20Pandemic%20Measures/New%20Measures%2004082020/Measure%20No.3-Domestic%20Travel-04.08.20.pdf

From 4 August, 'no person, including PNG citizens and permanent residents are allowed to enter PNG, except by aircraft'. Only flights departing from Cairns Airport and Brisbane Airport in Australia, and airports exempted in writing by the Controller, can enter PNG. All passengers are to be quarantined. https://covid19.info.gov.pg/files/National%20Pandemic%20Measures/New%20Measures%2004082020/Measure%20No.2-International%20Travel-04.08.20.pdf

"Since 28 July, Port Moresby (capital) has been placed in a 14-day lockdown with only essential businesses to operate, schools closed, and public transport services stopped." Source: https://covid19.info.gov.pg/files/Situation%20Report/PNG%20COVID-19%20Health%20Situation%20Report%2033%20%282020-08-09%29_FINAL.pdf

"Since 28 July, Port Moresby (capital) has been placed in a 14-day lockdown with only essential businesses to operate, schools closed, and public transport services stopped." Source: https://covid19.info.gov.pg/files/Situation%20Report/PNG%20COVID-19%20Health%20Situation%20Report%2033%20%282020-08-09%29_FINAL.pdf

“COVID-19 is here and it will be with us for some time into the future. We have to learn to live with it. Education, business, government services, churches and religious services as well as cultural and sporting events must be able to continue under the new normal or “niupela pasin” going forward,” said the Prime Minister. Source: https://covid19.info.gov.pg/index.php/2020/08/13/controller-manning-issues-11-new-measures/

"Since 28 July, Port Moresby (capital) has been placed in a 14-day lockdown with only essential businesses to operate, schools closed, and public transport services stopped." Source: https://covid19.info.gov.pg/files/Situation%20Report/PNG%20COVID-19%20Health%20Situation%20Report%2033%20%282020-08-09%29_FINAL.pdf

On 07 August, Measure 3 (Domestic Travel Measures) issued on 04 August was revoked. From this date, no person is allowed to travel by aircraft from one province to another province in PNG, unless provided an exemption in writing by the Controller or his delegate. Cargo flights with no passengers and medivac flights are exempted. Source: https://covid19.info.gov.pg/files/Situation%20Report/PNG%20COVID-19%20Health%20Situation%20Report%2033%20%282020-08-09%29_FINAL.pdf

“Testing in all provinces remains critically low, therefore ongoing transmission in other parts of the country is a possibility as population mobility continues,”-said Papua New Guinea’s prime minister James Marape. Source: https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/australasia/coronavirus-new-cases-papua-new-guinea-lockdown-a9664211.html

Contact tracing is ongoing for the cases confirmed in the last week. However, additional resources are required to improve monitoring of persons in quarantine, facility assessments and in instituting home quarantine. Source: https://covid19.info.gov.pg/files/Situation%20Report/PNG%20COVID-19%20Health%20Situation%20Report%2033%20%282020-08-09%29_FINAL.pdf

"The closure of venues or part of venues that serve alcohol without food; licensed premises that sell takeaway alcohol shall not sell alcohol on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays; no audience allowed for any clubs or sporting matches; reporting by PNG Sports Foundation is no longer in the measures; immediate closure of Boroko Market; the removal of SOP development by the Council of Churches; The PNG Business Council to develop COVID-19 business continuity plans in NCD; all restaurants to submit information about physical size of restaurant seating areas and seating plans to the PNG Business Council; and no chewing of buai in NCD except in private dwellings. " Source: https://covid19.info.gov.pg/files/Situation%20Report/PNG%20COVID-19%20Health%20Situation%20Report%2033%20%282020-08-09%29_FINAL.pdf

The following measures must be adopted in the new normal ("Niupela Pasin") situation: “- Mandatory wearing of mask in all public places; - Markets, sports and community events must be conducted in COVID-19 safe manner; - Measuring of temperature and washing of hands upon request must be complied with; - Bars and clubs will remain shut and beer drinking in public places and settlements will cease, but served only in license restaurants and hotels in a COVID-19 sensitive setting; - No shaking hands and keep away from another person by 2 meters if you are without mask; and - Churches will open for services but in a COVID-19 sensitive manner.” Source: Press Release from the Department of the Prime Minister and NEC https://www.facebook.com/SirManasupeHaus/photos/a.836303540053943/1228705554147071/?type=3&theater= (requires log-in)

The following measures must be adopted in the new normal ("Niupela Pasin") situation: “- Mandatory wearing of mask in all public places; - Markets, sports and community events must be conducted in COVID-19 safe manner; - Measuring of temperature and washing of hands upon request must be complied with; - Bars and clubs will remain shut and beer drinking in public places and settlements will cease, but served only in license restaurants and hotels in a COVID-19 sensitive setting; - No shaking hands and keep away from another person by 2 meters if you are without mask; and - Churches will open for services but in a COVID-19 sensitive manner.” Source: Press Release from the Department of the Prime Minister and NEC https://www.facebook.com/SirManasupeHaus/photos/a.836303540053943/1228705554147071/?type=3&theater= (requires log-in)

Even though public transport is now operating the "stringent requirements like wearing mask, only 15 passengers in PMVs, early check-ins for airline travelers and monitored sea travelling" will be required. Source: Press Release from the Department of the Prime Minister and NEC https://www.facebook.com/SirManasupeHaus/photos/a.836303540053943/1228705554147071/?type=3&theater= (requires log-in)

The two-week lockdown in the capital of Port Moresby was lifted on Wednesday, August 12, despite the country’s reported cases of Covid-19 doubling during the past week. Source: https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/australasia/coronavirus-new-cases-papua-new-guinea-lockdown-a9664211.html

According to National Pandemic Act, No. 11, specifically at the National Capital District ad Central Province, all public transport vehicles are required to operate at specified reduced passenger capacity. See original document, archived: https://covid19.info.gov.pg/files/National%20Pandemic%20Measures/Control%20Measures%2012082020/updated/Measure%20No.11-PublicTransportation-Port%20Moresby-13.08.20.pdf

The two-week lockdown in the capital of Port Moresby was lifted on Wednesday, August 12, despite the country’s reported cases of Covid-19 doubling during the past week. The lifting of lockdown measures will allow public buses to restart services and schools to reopen on Monday, August 17. However, schools must continue to adhere to all Covid-19 protocols and guidelines to ensure that there is a safe environment for students to return to. Sources: https://www.abc.net.au/news/2020-08-12/png-abandons-lockdown-resolves-to-live-with-coronavirus/12545602 https://news.pngfacts.com/2020/08/no-lockdown-extension-schools-to-reopen.html

According to National Pandemic Act, No. 9, “a ban is placed on gatherings of over 50 persons.”. See original document, archived: https://covid19.info.gov.pg/files/National%20Pandemic%20Measures/Control%20Measures%2012082020/updated/Measure%20No.9-Business%26Social-13.08.20.pdf

On 17 August, restrictions on internal movement (within country) is lifted for all areas within the country. See Department of Health COVID-19 Health Situation Report No. 34, archived: https://covid19.info.gov.pg/files/Situation%20Report/PNG%20COVID-19%20Health%20Situation%20Report%2034%20(2020-08-17)_FINAL.pdf

See additional note, National Pandemic Act 2020, No. 2 on international travel measures, archived: https://covid19.info.gov.pg/files/National%20Pandemic%20Measures/Control%20Measures%2012082020/updated/Measure%20No.2-%20InternationalTravel-13.08.20.pdf