Over the course of the weekend between July 23, 2021 and July 25, 2021 a total of 484 COVID-19 tests were conducted at the Ezra Long Laboratory.

From these samples, the Ministry of Health and Wellness received confirmation of 13 new cases of COVID-19.  July 23, 2021: 141 tests conducted with 4 positives  July 24, 2021: 173 tests conducted with 2 positives  July 25, 2021: 170 tests conducted with 7 positives.

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, these individuals 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.

Over this period of time, the Ministry of Health also received confirmation of the recovery of 24 individuals diagnosed with COVID-19. This brings the total number of active cases currently recorded in country to date to 93. Presently, two of the active cases are requiring critical care at the Respiratory Hospital. The new cases bring the total number of cases diagnosed in country to date to 5529. 

As of July 23, 2021 a total of 32, 001 individuals have received the first dose of the vaccine and 23, 938 individuals have received the second dose of the vaccine. Tomorrow Tuesday, July 27, 2021 the health team will be administering the COVID-19 vaccine at the Gros-Islet Human Resource Centre and the Phillip Marcellin Grounds. People can also access the COVID-19 vaccine at any of the wellness centre around the island and are asked to call or walk in to make an appointment to access this service. The COVID-19 vaccination drive will cater to the general population (18 years and older) for the first dose of the vaccine as well as individuals receiving the second dose of the vaccine.

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.