Today Friday March 19, 2021 the Ministry of Health and Wellness received confirmation from the Ezra Long Laboratory of 16 new cases of COVID-19. These results are from a batch of 185 samples taken during the period March 16 to March 18, 2021. The samples were processed on March 18, 2021.

These sixteen 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 each placed in home quarantine by healthcare practitioners while awaiting the return of their test results. Arrangements have since been made to place these individuals in isolation. The contact tracing for these new cases is currently underway.

Confirmation was also received of the recovery of 7 individuals diagnosed with COVID-19. This brings the total number of active cases currently recorded in country to date to 166. Presently, two of the active cases require critical care at the Respiratory Hospital. The new cases bring the total number of cases diagnosed in country to date to 4113.

As of yesterday March 19, 2021 a total of 20, 247 individuals have received the first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine in Saint Lucia. The Ministry of Health reminds the public that it continues the COVID-19 vaccination drive next week March 22 to March 26, 2021. During this time, individuals who are homebound due to age, illness or immobility will be targeted. These individuals are encouraged to make an appointment at their nearest Community Wellness Center to receive the vaccine at home.

The Ministry of Health continues to emphasize on the importance of practicing the infection prevention and control measures to minimize 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.