Today Wednesday July 28, 2021 the Ministry of Health and Wellness received confirmation of 8 new cases of COVID-19 from the Ezra Long Laboratory. These results are from a batch of 327 samples taken during the period July 23, 2021 to July 27, 2021. The samples were processed on July 27, 2021.

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, they were placed in home quarantine by healthcare practitioners while awaiting receipt 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 11 individuals diagnosed with COVID-19. This brings the total number of active cases currently recorded in country to date to 90. 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 5537.

As of July 27, 2021 a total of 32, 068 individuals have received the first dose of the vaccine and 24, 171 individuals have received the second dose of the vaccine. Tomorrow Thursday, July 29, 2021 the health team will be administering the COVID-19 vaccine at the Vigie Sports Complex and the Phillip Marcellin Grounds. People can also access the COVID-19 vaccine at any of the wellness center around the island and are asked to call or walk in to make an appointment to access this service. This vaccination drive will cater to individuals 18 years and older receiving the first dose of the vaccine as well as individuals receiving the second dose of the vaccine. Let us all get vaccinated to protect ourselves, family, friends and others.

The Ministry of Health reminds the public of the importance of practicing the infection prevention and control measures to reduce the spread of COVID-19. Saint Lucians are also asked to remain vigilant as the country is at risk for the introduction of COVID-19 variants. Some of the public health measures people are urged to adhere to include: - 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.