Today Thursday July 22, 2021 the Ministry of Health and Wellness received confirmation of 11 new cases of COVID-19 from the Ezra Long Laboratory. These results are from a batch of 206 samples taken during the period July 13, 2021 to July 21, 2021. The samples were processed on July 21, 2021.

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

The Ministry of Health also reports one new COVID-19 death. To date, the total number of COVID-19 deaths in country is 51 and the total number of COVID-19 related deaths is 37. COVID-19 death #51 is a 30 year old female from the Canaries district with pre-existing medical conditions. The Ministry of Health extends condolences to the family, friends and loved ones of this individual.

Confirmation was also received today of the recovery of 3 individuals diagnosed with COVID19. This brings the total number of active cases currently recorded in country to date to 107. Presently, all of the active cases are doing well. The new cases bring the total number of cases diagnosed in country to date to 5507. 

As of July 21, 2021 a total of 31, 842 individuals have received the first dose of the vaccine and 23, 608 individuals have received the second dose of the vaccine. Tomorrow Friday, July 22, 2021 the health team will be administering the COVID-19 vaccine at the Jacmel Wellness Centre. This vaccination will cater to individuals 18 years and older receiving the first dose of the vaccine as well as individuals receiving the second dose of the vaccine. Let us all get vaccinated to protect ourselves, family, friends and others.

The Ministry of Health continues to emphasize on the importance of practicing the infection prevention and control measures to reduce the spread of COVID-19: - Wash your hands frequently using soap and flowing water - Wear a mask in public places and ensure it covers the mouth, chin and nose - Maintain a physical distance from others - Use a bleach solution to sanitize frequently touched surfaces and frequently handled objects - Avoid contact with other people who have flu-like symptoms - If you are experiencing flu-like symptoms, keep away from others and seek medical care.

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

For more information please contact the Office of the Chief Medical Officer or the Epidemiology Unit, at 468-5309/468-5317 respectively.