Today Wednesday May 26, 2021 the Ministry of Health and Wellness received confirmation of 12 new cases of COVID-19 from the Ezra Long Laboratory. This is from a total of 379 samples taken during the period May 21, 2021 to May 25, 2021. These samples were processed on May 25, 2021.

These 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 these new cases in isolation. The contact tracing for these newly diagnosed individuals is underway.

Confirmation was also received of the recovery of 37 individuals bringing the total number of active cases in country to date to 172. 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 4980.

As of yesterday May 25, 2021 a total of 27, 588 individuals have received the first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine and 18, 151 individuals have received the second dose. Tomorrow Thursday, May 27, 2021 the health team will be administering the COVID-19 vaccine at the Vigie Sports Complex and the Philip Marcellin Grounds. The COVID-19 vaccination drive will cater to the general population (18 years and older) for the first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine as well individuals receiving the second dose of the vaccine. The Ministry of Health encourages all to get vaccinated to protect themselves, family, loved ones and others from the COVID-19 virus.

The Ministry of Health reminds every one of 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.