MHHS warns of Covid increase

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Respiratory Disease Situation Update (Ministry of Health and Human Services)

By Elilai Rengiil

Covid cases in Palau have continued to climb, with 85 infections and nine hospital admissions reported in the latest weekly Respiratory Disease Situation Update from the Ministry of Health and Human Services (MHHS), released Friday, July 24.

The Communicable Disease Unit (CDU) said Covid remains a serious respiratory illness but is now managed in line with other infections, with no routine contact tracing conducted. Officials said the focus is on prevention and transparent reporting of case numbers to keep the public informed.

No Covid vaccines are currently available in Palau, according to MHHS. Masks are required in all MHHS facilities, and the ministry continues to advise good hygiene practices, regular handwashing, use of hand sanitizer, and medical care for anyone with a cough lasting two weeks or more.

The weekly report also tracks other respiratory diseases, including tuberculosis (TB) and pertussis (whooping cough). Both diseases have held the same case count for two weeks. The latest TB update lists 13 cases, with 134 contacts identified and 130 evaluated.

MHHS describes TB as an airborne disease spread by coughing or sneezing and urges anyone with a persistent cough, fatigue, fever, chills, night sweats, loss of appetite, or unexplained weight loss to seek care.

Pertussis has three cases reported and 45 contacts identified, of which 44 have been evaluated. The MHHS notes that infants, older adults, and immunocompromised people are most at risk and reiterates that vaccination offers the best protection.

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Tenacious Archer returns to Palau: Brings drones, USVs

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Unmanned Surface Vessels or USVs (Photo: US Embassy)

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United States (US) military forces are conducting Exercise Tenacious Archer in Palau from July 18 to August 5, with activities coordinated in close consultation with national and state authorities, and traditional leaders.

The public is advised that there is an increase in military personnel, vessels, and activities around the island for the duration of the exercise. Residents can expect loud noises, road congestion, and detours.

This year’s exercise involves around 400 personnel from the US Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marine Corps.

Unmanned Surface Vessel (USV) operations around Melekeok Marina began last Thursday and will continue until August 2.

USVs, or drone boats, are water vessels that operate without a human crew onboard, underscoring the need for clear public information on where these systems will operate and what residents can expect.

Training activities also include the use of drones for surveillance and logistics demonstrations.

US Army Pacific Public Affairs Major Seth Montz responded to questions on exercise locations and said, “For security and safety reasons, we do not release specific training locations ahead of time. All exercise activities are coordinated closely with local authorities and are conducted at designated sites approved by the Government of Palau.”

Montz added that there will be no live-fire exercises in public areas and that any such training will take place only within secure ranges under strict safety protocols.

US officials emphasize that the exercise is being carried out in coordination with the national government and in compliance with local regulations. This includes adherence to environmental protections, an issue of ongoing public interest as military activities expand in the region.

Prior to the start of the exercise, US military representatives engaged directly with Palau’s traditional leadership. Last month, US Military Group Chief LCDR Chris Lelah and PACOM Military Liaison Captain Elizabeth “Dory” Ditoiu, along with the Oceanic Engagement Team (OET), facilitated discussions between Exercise Commander Colonel Mary Durham and some of Palau’s clan chiefs at Palau Community College (PCC).

The meetings were intended to inform traditional leaders about the scope of the exercise, what communities can expect before, during, and after its completion, and to seek their concurrence to proceed.

While the US military says it is committed to safety and transparency, the limited disclosure of specific locations may prompt concern among residents, especially regarding the use of drones, USVs, and the significant increase in military presence in coastal and populated areas.

The US Embassy has been sharing informational fliers on social media about the Exercise, and earlier engagements with state officials and clan chiefs reflect strong efforts to increase transparency and communication to affected residents. 

Clear communication remains essential to ensure public awareness and confidence, as well as continued compliance with local environmental and regulatory standards.

Tenacious Archer is an annual United States (US) military joint training exercise in Palau that focuses on integrated air and missile defense.

This is the second consecutive year the exercise has been conducted. “By training together, we strengthen our ability to respond to shared challenges, support regional security, and build lasting relationships based on trust and mutual respect,” Montz stated.