PRESS RELEASE — The Ministry of Health and Wellness today Saturday February 20, 2021 received confirmation from the Ezra Long Laboratory of the diagnosis of 218 new cases of COVID-19. These results are from a batch of 585 tests that were conducted on samples taken over the period February 1 to February 17, 2021. It is necessary to note that the large numbers of COVID-19 cases reported currently are as a result of the Ezra Long Laboratory continuing to manage the backlog of samples being tested.
Today confirmation was also received of the recovery of 97 individuals who were in ca re. This brings to 513 the total number of active cases currently recorded in country. Two of the active cases presently require critical care at the Respiratory Hospital.
These individuals were seen at various community respiratory clinics where they were assessed and tested for COVID-19. In-keeping with the national COVID-19 testing protocol, healthcare practitioners placed each of these individuals in home quarantine while awaiting the return of their test results. Arrangements have been made to place these individuals into isolation. The contact tracing for these new cases is underway. The new cases bring the total number of cases diagnosed in country to date to 3078.
Today the Ministry of Health also reports three COVID-19 related deaths. This brings the total numb er of deaths in country to date to 31.
Death #29 is a 53 year old female from the Castries district with no known underlying medical illness es.
Death #30 is a 48 year old male from the Babonneau district with underlying medical illnesses.
Death #31 is a 50 year old male from the Castries district with underlying medical illnesses.
The Ministry of Health extends sympathies to the families who have lost their loved ones.
As we commemorate our Independence Day, let us all remain on alert and continue to play our part t o protect the health and safety of our family, friends, and neighbours. We ask all to continue minimizing movements, avoid social gatherings and other activities which will bring about greater exposure to the virus.
Let us all continue to remain focused on practicing the infection prevention and control measures to minimize the spread of COVID-19:
– Wash your hands during the day using soap and flowing water
– Wear a mask in public places and ensure it covers the mouth, chin and nose
– Maintain a physical distance from others
– Use a bleach solution to sanitize frequently touched surfaces and frequently handled objects
– Avoid contact with other people who have flu-like symptoms
– If you are experiencing flu-like symptoms, keep away from others and seek medical care
The Ministry of Health and Wellness will continue providing updates to the public as new information becomes available.