The Ministry of Health today Thursday November 26, 2020 received confirmation of three new cases of COVID-19. This brings the total number of cases diagnosed in country to date to 238. One of the cases is a non-national who is a crew member on the cargo ship which had recorded cases of COVID-19 one week ago. Case #237 is a 46 year old male. The individual had been placed in quarantine on the ship after being assessed and tested for COVID-19. The other two confirmed COVID-19 cases are Saint Lucian nationals. Case #236 is a 26 year old male from the Gros-Islet district Case #238 is a 5 year old male from the Gros-Islet district These individuals were seen at a community respiratory facility, where they were assessed and tested for COVID-19. They were placed in quarantine by the health practitioners while awaiting the return of their test results. Epidemiological links have been established for all three of the cases. As per protocol, arrangements have been made for the transfer of these individuals into isolation. The Ministry of Health takes the opportunity to once again remind everyone experiencing flu-like symptoms of the importance of avoiding gatherings and close contact with other people. Instead, medical care should be sought immediately at the closest respiratory clinic where an assessment will be conducted and any required testing and treatment to be done. The community respiratory clinics are the Gros-Islet Polyclinic, La Clery Wellness Centre, Dennery Hospital, Vieux-Fort Wellness Centre and Soufriere Hospital.

The Ministry of Health reminds every citizen to consistently practice infection prevention and control measures: - Wash and sanitize hands often throughout the day - Ensure a mask is always worn while in public - Follow the floor markers which have been placed in public spaces to assist in maintaining the recommended physical distance. Where these floor markers are not available, the separation from the next person should be about two arm’s length apart. The Ministry of Health and Wellness will continue providing updates as new information becomes available.