PRESS RELEASE — Today Thursday August 12, 2021 the Ministry of Health and Wellness received confirmation from the Ezra Long Laboratory of 130 new cases of COVID-19. This is from a batch of 490 samples taken on August 10, 2021 and August 11, 2021. These samples were processed on August 11, 2021.
These newly diagnosed 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, they were each placed in home quarantine by healthcare practitioners while awaiting the return of their COVID-19 test results. Arrangements have since been made to place them in isolation. The contact tracing for these new cases is underway.
The Ministry of Health also reports one new COVID-19 related death. To date, the total number of COVID-19 deaths in country is 67 and the total number of COVID-19 related deaths is 28. COVID-19 related death #28 is a 77 year old male from the Castries district. The Ministry of Health sympathizes with the family, friends and loved ones of this individual.
Confirmation was also received of the recovery of 10 individuals diagnosed with COVID-19 bringing the total number of active cases in country to date to 515. Presently, four of the active cases are requiring critical care at the Respiratory Hospital. The new cases bring the total number of cases diagnosed in country to date to 6112.
As of August 11, 2021 a total of 33, 256 individuals have received the first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine and 26, 063 individuals have received the second dose. Tomorrow Friday, August 12, 2021 the COVID-19 vaccination drive will take place at the Jacmel Wellness Center and the Gros-Islet Human Resource Center catering to the general population (18 years and older) for the first dose as well as individuals receiving the second dose of the vaccine. People can also access the COVID-19 vaccine at the various wellness centers around the island and can make an appointment via a call or walk in.
Saint Lucians are advised to be mindful that we are still managing the COVID-19 pandemic which poses great risk to ourselves, family, friends and others. Also, everyone should remain vigilant and follow all protocols as we prepare for the possible introduction of the Delta variant. Let us all make it a priority to adopt behaviors and practice the infection prevention and control guidelines that can help to reduce exposure to the COVID-19 virus. These include frequent hand washing, use of a face mask in public covering the mouth, nose and chin, maintaining a distance from others and using a bleach solution to sanitize frequently touched surfaces and handled objects. If you are experiencing flu-like symptoms, keep away from others and seek medical care at your closest community respiratory clinic.