Today Sunday, August 1, 2021 the Ministry of Health and Wellness received confirmation from the Ezra Long Laboratory of 22 new cases of COVID-19. This is from a total of 160 samples taken during the period July 29, 2021 to July 31, 2021.

These samples were processed on July 31, 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 each placed in home quarantine by healthcare practitioners while awaiting the return of their COVID-19 test results. Arrangements have since been made to place these newly diagnosed individuals in isolation. The contact tracing for these new cases is underway.

Confirmation was also received of the recovery of 2 individuals bringing the total number of active cases in country to date to 159. 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 5632.

As of July 29, 2021 a total of 32, 291 individuals have received the first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine and 24, 775 individuals have received the second dose. The next COVID-19 vaccination drive will take place on Tuesday August 3, 2021 at the Phillip Marcellin Grounds and the GrosIslet Human Resource Center. The Ministry of Health encourages all unvaccinated adults (18 years and older) to get vaccinated to protect themselves, family, loved ones and others from the COVID-19 virus. 

The Ministry of Health reminds the public that we are still managing the COVID-19 pandemic and therefore the health and safety of everyone should be the priority. Let us continue to adhere to the public health measures and remain vigilant as the risk of the introduction of COVID-19 variants remains high. Everyone should make it a priority to continue practicing the infection prevention and control measures which include frequent hand washing, use of a face mask in public places covering the nose, mouth and chin, avoiding crowds and mass crowd activities, sanitizing frequently touched surfaces and keeping away from people if experiencing respiratory symptoms and seeking medical care immediately.

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.