Covid-19 case numbers in the Cook Islands have decreased following a spike in reinfection earlier this month.

Te Marae Ora (TMO) Ministry for Health secretary Bob Williams said the numbers have decreased with a seven-day rolling average of 16 in the first week of January to January 10.

Williams has confirmed that there is one hospitalisation case which is considered “moderate” Covid.

At this stage, he said the patient requires oxygen supplement and has been admitted for three days receiving appropriate treatment as per TMO guideline.

Williams said the condition of the patient has been improving.

A week ago, the country recorded its second Covid-19 related death - an 82-year-old woman in Mauke.

The first Covid death was of a 63-year-old woman who had underlying health conditions and died in April, 2022.

Te Marae Ora had also confirmed a week ago that there was a case of the new variant of Covid-19 – XBB1 – in the country.

Meanwhile, Williams says medical staff in the Pa Enua are assisted by staff from Rarotonga through tele-health with weekly meetings and emergency support to deal with Covid cases on the islands.

He said if necessary TMO will send a team across.

Te Marae Ora has also instructed staff to screen for high risk population.

Williams said the ministry will also be sending oral antiviral (Paxlovid) which can prevent severe infection if taken within five days from onset of symptoms.

The ministry will also provide training and support for triaging of cases and on eligibility of oral antiviral.

Te Marae Ora earlier this month announced that it had reintroduced compulsory mask-wearing and RAT testing for those entering health facilities. It also encouraged mask-wearing in enclosed spaces.