The Ministry of Health and Wellness today Sunday July 18, 2021 received confirmation from the Ezra Long Laboratory of 10 new cases of COVID-19. This is from a batch of 182 samples taken during the period July 15, 2021 to July 17, 2021. These samples were processed on July 17, 2021.

These newly diagnosed individuals were seen at various community respiratory clinics where they were assessed and tested for COVID-19. In-keeping with the national COVID-19 testing protocol, they were placed in home quarantine by healthcare practitioners while awaiting receipt of their COVID-19 test results. Arrangements have since been made to place them in isolation. The contact tracing for these new cases is underway.

Confirmation was also received of the recovery of 13 individuals diagnosed with COVID-19 bringing the total number of active cases in country to date to 119. Presently, one of the active cases is requiring critical care at the Respiratory Hospital. The new cases bring the total number of cases diagnosed in country to date to 5480.

As of July 16, 2021 a total of 31, 657 individuals have received the first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine and 23, 213 individuals have received the second dose. Tomorrow Monday, July 19, 2021 the COVID-19 vaccination drive will take place at the Vigie Sports Complex and the Soufriere Hospital Grounds catering to the general population (18 years and older) for the first dose as well as individuals receiving the second dose of the vaccine.

The Ministry of Health reminds the public to remain vigilant as to continue to manage the COVID19 pandemic which poses great risk to you, family, friends, colleagues and others. Let us all adopt behaviors and habits that can help to reduce exposure to the COVID-19 virus. Everyone should continue practicing the infection prevention and control guidelines which includes frequent hand washing or use of hand sanitizer, use of a face mask in public covering the mouth, nose and chin, maintaining a distance from others and using a bleach solution to sanitize frequently touched surfaces and handled objects. If you are experiencing flu-like symptoms, keep away from others and seek medical care at your closest community respiratory clinic.

The Ministry of Health and Wellness will continue providing updates to the public as new information becomes available.