As of May 25, 2020 the World Health Organization reported a total of 5, 304, 772 confirmed cases of COVID-19 globally with 342,029 deaths. There are now 2, 395, 295 confirmed cases in the region of the Americas. The affected countries within the region include Dominican Republic (14,801), Haiti (865), Barbados (92), Jamaica (550), Cuba (1,941), Dominica (16), Grenada (22), Trinidad and Tobago (116), Guyana (127), Antigua and Barbuda (25), Saint Vincent and Grenadines (18), and Martinique (197).
As of May 26, 2020 Saint Lucia has recorded a total of 18 confirmed cases of COVID-19. All eighteen cases are fully recovered. Test results received on Tuesday, May 26, 2020 for 26 samples are all negative. Saint Lucia has carried out a total of 924 tests to date. This week we continue testing at the community level and the frontline workers. As we prepare for the phased opening of increasing sectors we continue to guide the public on measures to reduce the transmission of COVID-19.
We continue to request that every individual practice the standard recommendations to prevent the spread of infection. These include:
– regular hand washing with soap and water or alcohol based hand sanitizer where soap and water is not available
– cover mouth and nose with disposable tissues or clothing when coughing and sneezing
– avoid close contact with anyone showing symptoms of respiratory illness such as coughing and sneezing
– wear your home made or cloth mask whenever venturing out from home
– maintain a 6 foot distance when in public even while wearing a mask
– seek medical attention if you have symptoms suggestive of respiratory illness either during or after travel
– Refrain from touching items unless you intend to buy them when grocery shopping and otherwise.
The Department of Health and Wellness will continue providing regular updates on COVID-19.