Today Friday May 21, 2021 the Ministry of Health and Wellness received confirmation from the Ezra Long Laboratory of 12 new cases of COVID-19. This is from a total of 209 samples taken on May 18, 2021 and May 19, 2021. These samples were processed on May 20, 2021.

The twelve newly diagnosed 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 receipt of their COVID-19 test results. Arrangements have since been made to place them in isolation. The contact tracing for these new cases is underway.

Confirmation was also received of the recovery of 11 individuals diagnosed with COVID-19 bringing the total number of active cases in country to date to 237. At present, one of the active cases is requiring critical care at the Respiratory Hospital. The new cases bring the total number of cases diagnosed in country to date to 4935.

As of May 20, 2021 a total of 27, 165 individuals have received the first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine and 17, 703 individuals have received the second dose.

Tomorrow Saturday, May 22, 2021 the Ministry of Health will be undertaking its pop-up vaccination drive at the Soufriere Square from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and the JQ Rodney Bay Mall from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Individuals 18 years and older taking the first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine as well individuals receiving the second dose of the vaccine can visit those vaccination sites to get vaccinated.

The Ministry of Health continues to emphasize on the importance of practicing the infection prevention and control measures that will help to reduce 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.