Aitutaki now has three cases of Covid-19, after first detecting the virus a week ago.

The third case was detected on Saturday. All cases and their close contacts are in isolation.

The total number of Covid-19 cases in the Cook Islands (Rarotonga and Aitutaki) stands at 338 (as of last night).

There were 58 new cases recorded over the weekend – 36 on Saturday and 22 yesterday (Sunday).

According to Te Marae Ora Ministry of Health, there are 243 active cases and 95 recovered (as of 8pm last night).

The health ministry has conducted a total of 3092 PCR tests since February 13, when the first Covid case was reported.

According to TMO, there are still no cases in hospital.

However as Covid-19 cases continue to rise, Cook Islands public health advisor Dr Douglas Lush says it is “inevitable” that the country will experience some hospitalisations from the virus.

“So far, the virus has largely been circulating among the younger community, such as in schools, who tend to be less vulnerable,” Lush earlier said.

“It’s inevitable it will also circulate amongst older or more vulnerable parts of the community. In turn, this will likely lead to hospitalisations.”

Lush also said Te Marae Ora (TMO) had contingencies in the event of people needing additional care and for hospitalisations occurring due to the ongoing spread of the virus.

“We are absolutely prepared and the Pfizer vaccination provides us with additional care and protection,” Lush said.

Prime Minister Mark Brown last week said the nation was ready for the arrival of hospital admissions due to Covid-19, particularly as their dedicated Covid ward at the Rarotonga hospital was established.

Rarotonga hospital has 20 beds in the Covid-19 ward, 10 of the beds are in a negative pressure room while another 10 are outside the room. There are also four ventilators on the island.

Meanwhile PM Brown has called on people showing Covid-19 symptoms to get tested.

“I want to say to all our people who have taken the time to either get themselves tested, vaccinated or both recently – meitaki ma’ata. Your efforts are a major factor in the success we are having in managing this virus.

“We all have a role to play in managing this virus and slowing down its spread. Wear your masks, keep your distance from others, wash your hands regularly and avoid indoor gatherings.

“Thank you all for playing your part in helping to protect the Cook Islands from Covid-19.”