As of June 2, 2020, the World Health Organization reported a total of 6, 194,533 confirmed cases of COVID-19 globally, with 376,320 deaths. Within the region of the Americas there was a total of 2, 905,432 cases, with the number of new cases across the region still trending upwards.

On June 3, 2020 the Ministry of Health and Wellness received the results of 29 COVID-19 tests that were conducted, all of which returned as negative. This is the 31st consecutive day, that Saint Lucia has received no positive cases since its last case was recorded on May 3.

Today, Grade 6 and Form 5 students return to school in preparation for their examinations. The Ministry of Education has worked closely with the Ministry of Health to ensure that all protocols are in place for the safe return of the students. Parents are reminded to work closely with the administration of the school to ensure compliance to infection prevention and control measures which include ensuring the students leave home with their masks, hand sanitizer and tissue. Also ensure that children showing signs and symptoms of respiratory illness are kept home and seek medical care at the nearest community respiratory clinics.

The Ministry of Health and Wellness alerts the public that as every sector opens, new protocols will be established. It is estimated that COVID-19 will be affecting us for about 2 years, so it is important that we prepare, adapt and learn to live safely in this new environment. We also anticipate new cases, however if we all comply by the guidelines and maintain them, the possibility for transmission is minimized.

With all this in place we also require the support of every citizen in maintaining the recommended infection prevention and control and physical distancing measures to strengthen our readiness. We ask that everyone continues to sanitize their hands by either hand washing or using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer, wearing their masks while undertaking daily activities out of the home and maintain the required 6 foot distance. Also, be sure to cover mouth and nose with disposable tissues or clothing when coughing and sneezing. These simple and inexpensive actions will make a meaningful difference in preventing the spread of infection.

The Department of Health and Wellness will continue providing regular updates on COVID-19.