Today Wednesday August 11, 2021 the Ministry of Health and Wellness received confirmation of 33 new cases of COVID-19 from the Ezra Long Laboratory. These results are from a batch of 273 samples taken on August 9, 2021 and August 10, 2021. The samples were processed on August 10, 2021.

All of these new cases 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 COVID-19 test results. Arrangements have since been made to place them in isolation. The contact tracing for these new cases is currently underway.

Confirmation was also received of the recovery of 11 individuals diagnosed with COVID-19. This brings the total number of active cases currently recorded in country to date to 396. Presently, four 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 5982.

As of August 10, 2021 a total of 33, 120 individuals have received the first dose of the vaccine and 25, 931 individuals have received the second dose of the vaccine. Tomorrow Thursday, August 12, 2021 the COVID-19 vaccine will be made available at the Beanfield Secondary School, Vigie Sports Complex and the People’s Discount Drugstore (by appointment only). Also, people can access the COVID-19 vaccine at any of the wellness centers around the island and are asked to call or walk in to make an appointment. This COVID-19 vaccination caters to individuals 18 years and older as well as individuals receiving the second dose of the vaccine.

The Ministry of Health continues to encourage adults to get vaccinated given that it can protect an individual against the severe form, complications and hospitalizations of the COVID-19 virus.

Saint Lucians are once again reminded to be vigilant as we prepare for the possible introduction of the Delta variant. The Ministry of Health advises people to get vaccinated and to follow all the COVID-19 protocols in order to protect themselves, family, friends and others from the virus. It is very important that people realize the severity of the COVID-19 virus. Let us all continue adopting practices to reduce the exposure of the COVID-19 virus. Some of the infection prevention and control measures include regular handwashing using soap and flowing water, use of hand sanitizer, proper use of a face mask in public, keeping frequently touched surfaces clean, maintaining a distance from others and avoiding crowds and persons with respiratory symptoms. Individuals with respiratory symptoms are asked to visit any of the five Community Respiratory Clinics that is the Vieux-Fort Wellness Center, Dennery Hospital, Soufriere Hospital, La Clery Wellness Center and the Gros-Islet Polyclinic.

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