THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH CONTINUES TO INCREASE SURVEILLANCE TO REDUCE THE RISK OF THE SPREAD OF THE VIRUS.

On September 8, Saint Lucia recorded a new case of COVID-19.

The individual was a 27-year-old male visitor who arrived in Saint Lucia on Sunday, September 6. On the evening of September 9, the visitor was repatriated to the United States via private airline.

On receipt of the notification from the Ezra Long Laboratory the confirmed case was immediately isolated and contact tracing commenced. The investigation consisted of interviews, contact tracing, screening and testing as required of possible contacts. These contacts included the passengers from the flight seated in proximity to the case (two rows in front and two rows to the back), port personnel, the taxi driver, hotel employees and guests. The tests conducted among all contacts of the visitor thus far, are all negative.

Investigations and contact tracing by the health team at the hotel on Wednesday, September 9, indicated that the transmission risk was low. The adherence by the hotel’s management and staff to the recommended protocols had resulted in low exposure during the limited period of his stay.

Saint Lucia has recorded a total of 27 confirmed cases of COVID-19, with zero deaths. A total of 7,391 tests have been conducted to date. As more sectors open and restrictions are reduced, the public is advised to take personal responsibility to protect themselves and family.

The Ministry of Health continues to increase surveillance to reduce the risk of the spread of the virus, by discouraging illegal entry at borders, breaches to home quarantine, and non-adherence to protocols. The ministry continues to advise on the importance of maintaining the standard recommendations for infection prevention and control which include: regular hand washing with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer where soap and water is not available; and covering mouth and nose with disposable tissues or clothing when coughing and sneezing.

The Ministry of Health appeals to everyone to continue supporting national efforts to minimize the threat of COVID-19 on island. The ministry will continue providing further updates on COVID-19.

For more information contact the Office of the Chief Medical Officer or the Epidemiology Unit, at 468-5309/468-5317 respectively.