The Ministry of Health yesterday released a statement urging against the practices of irresponsible gatherings amidst the spread of the dreaded COVID-19 virus.
The statement said that the Ministry of Health and Wellness continues to manage COVID-19 cases in country. A total of 5,410 cases have been diagnosed in country from March 2020 to present and a total of 50 COVID- 19 deaths and 36 COVID-19 related deaths have been recorded. Over the last 14 days, 114 new cases were reported and there is a total of 127 active cases presently in country. The daily infection rate for the past week has been 4.3 per 100,000 per day with an average of 7 cases per day. As of July 9, 2021, a total of 31, 286 individuals received the first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine and 22, 569 received both doses. This represents only 12 % of the population fully vaccinated.
Over the last 14 days, we note an increase in the number of COVID-19 cases on a daily basis. We also note the increased campaign-related activities within the communities. The organizers of these events are reminded to ensure the necessary authorization is granted from the Royal St. Lucia Police Force.
All approved activities according to the Ministry of Health must be managed as per protocols. “It is of grave concern that we note mass crowd activities, no physical distancing, masks not worn or worn inappropriately.
Health officials went on to remind the public that the island is still managing a pandemic with over 100 active cases in a country with low vaccine coverage. “This puts us at high risk for in-country transmission due to large activities without adherence to public health measures.”