Today Tuesday January 5, 2021 the Ministry of Health received confirmation of twenty new cases of COVID-19. This is from a batch of 219 COVID-19 tests conducted by the Ezra Long Laboratory. This brings the total number of cases diagnosed in country to 380.

Four of the cases are non-nationals ranging in age from 38 years and 84 years. These individuals were placed in quarantine pending receipt of their test results. They have since been placed in isolation.

The other sixteen cases recorded are Saint Lucian nationals ranging in age from 2 years to 58 years. They are from the Dennery, Castries, Gros-Islet, Soufriere and Anse La Raye districts.

They were all seen at a community respiratory clinic where they were assessed and tested for COVID-19. While awaiting receipt of their test results, they were placed in quarantine by a health practitioner. Eight of the sixteen cases are contacts of previous confirmed cases. Investigations are on-going by the contact tracing team to determine the possible existence of a link to the other cases. Arrangements have been made for the placement of these individuals into isolation.

The Ministry of Health urges everyone to continue taking the necessary measures to reduce the spread of the virus and to protect themselves, family and loved ones. We ask that everyone limit their movements, adhere to the protocols in public places, and avoid social gatherings and other activities.

The public is reminded of the importance of practicing the infection prevention and control measures to reduce the spread of the COVID-19 virus: – Wash your hands often during the day using soap and flowing water – Wear a mask in public places and ensure it covers the mouth, chin and nose – Maintain a distance of six feet from others – 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 at the closest community respiratory clinic.

The Ministry of Health and Wellness will continue providing updates 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.