Today Thursday, June 3, 2021 the Ministry of Health and Wellness received confirmation of 5 new cases of COVID-19from the Ezra Long Laboratory. This is from a batch of 289 samples taken during the period May 31, 2021 to June 2, 2021. These samples were processed on June 2, 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 newly diagnosed individuals in isolation. The contact tracing for these new cases is underway.

Confirmation was also received of the recovery of 6 individuals bringing the total number of active cases in country to date to 151. Presently, all of the active cases are doing well. The new cases bring the total number of cases diagnosed in country to date to 5102.

As of June 2, 2021 a total of 28, 587 individuals have received the first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine and 19, 241 individuals have received the second dose. Tomorrow Friday, June 4, 2021 the health team will be administering the COVID-19 vaccine at the Daren Sammy Cricket Grounds, Phillip Marcellin Grounds, the Jacmel Wellness Centre and the Vigie Sports Complex. The COVID19 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 citizen of 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.