Today Monday July 19, 2021 the Ministry of Health and Wellness received confirmation of 1 new case of COVID-19 from the Ezra Long Laboratory. This is from a total of 120 samples taken on July 17, 2021 and July 18, 2021. These samples were processed on July 18, 2021.

This individual was seen at a community respiratory clinic where he/she was assessed and tested for COVID-19. In-keeping with the national COVID-19 testing protocol, the individual wasplaced in home quarantine by a healthcare practitioner while awaiting the return of the COVID-19 test results. Arrangements have since been made to place this individual in isolation. Contact tracing for this new case is underway.

Confirmation was also received of the recovery of 15 individuals bringing the total number of active cases in country to date to 105. Presently, 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 5481.

As of July 16, 2021 a total of 31, 657 individuals have received the first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine and 23, 213 individuals have received the second dose. Tomorrow Tuesday, July 20, 2021 the health team will be administering the COVID-19 vaccine at the Phillip Marcellin Grounds and the Gros-Islet Human Resource Centre. The Ministry of Health encourages all unvaccinated adults (18 years and older) to get vaccinated to protect themselves, family, loved ones and others from the COVID-19 virus.

The Ministry of Health reminds the public that we are still managing the COVID-19 pandemic and therefore everyone should prioritize their health and safety by adhering to the public health measures. Citizens are asked to remain vigilant as the risk of the introduction of COVID-19 variants remains high. Let us all adhere to the protocols that are put in place to protect us from COVID-19 infection. These include frequent hand washing, use of a face mask in public places covering the nose, mouth and chin, avoiding crowds and mass crowd activities, sanitizing frequently touched surfaces and keeping away from people if experiencing respiratory symptoms and seeking medical care immediately.

The Ministry of Health and Wellness will continue providing updates to the public as new information becomes available.