Security officers check bags as passengers get ready to board their flight at the Nadi International Airport. Picture: JONACANI LALAKOBAU

Fiji’s borders will be closed to all foreign nationals who have been in mainland China within 14 days of their intended travel to Fiji.

This was announced by the Department of Immigration this hour as part of the Fijian Government’s ongoing work to contain the global spread of the coronavirus.

The statement said that similar to newly-instituted policies in Singapore and Australia, no passenger arrivals or transits would be permitted for those falling under those controls, effective immediately and until further notice.

As of today, there are no confirmed cases of the coronavirus in Fiji.

“Given the global spread of the virus, the government has decided on this measure of extreme precaution in the interest of mitigating the risk of an outbreak of the coronavirus in Fiji,” the department stated.

“Government is working closely with all international carriers to ensure that any travelers who fall under these restrictions are not permitted to board flights to Fiji at their international departure location.

Earlier-announced precautionary measures to maintain a hygienic environment and screen ill passengers will continue to be taken in-flight to further minimise any risk.

“Fiji is closely monitoring the spread of the coronavirus and is prepared to pursue more stringent courses of action if deemed necessary.”