Today Sunday July 4, 2021 the Ministry of Health and Wellness received confirmation from the Ezra Long Laboratory of 6 new cases of COVID-19. These results are from a batch of 246 samples taken during the period June 28, 2021 to July 2, 2021. These samples were processed on July 3, 2021.

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

Confirmation was also received today of the recovery of 8 individuals diagnosed with COVID19. This brings the total number of active cases currently recorded in country to date to 95. Presently, all of the active cases are doing well. The new cases bring the total number of cases diagnosed in country to date to 5326.

As of June 30, 2021 a total of 30, 902 individuals have received the first dose of the vaccine and 22, 019 individuals have received the second dose of the vaccine. Tomorrow Monday, July 5, 2021 the health team will be administering the COVID-19 vaccine at the Vigie Sports Complex and the Soufriere Hospital Grounds. The COVID-19 vaccination drive will cater to the general population (18 years and older) for the first dose of the vaccine as well as individuals receiving the second dose of the vaccine.

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.