Seventeen Covid-19 deaths recorded by the Health Ministry in its update today puts the total number of fatalities at 365.

This is the third highest death rate reported in a 24 hour period.

Meanwhile, 509 additional cases reported on Saturday have pushed the total number of cases on record to 19,444- with 7,765 of those being presently active.

There were also 215 recoveries reported over the same period.

In the hospitals there are 455 patients, with 6,632 others in home isolation. 

A total of 64,639 people have been vaccinated for Covid-19 with one dose, while another 1,179 have been fully inoculated with two shots.

Members of the public are reminded that they must adhere to the ‘New Normal’ recommendations and take the following personal health measures to protect themselves and their loved ones from COVID-19:

–Wear a mask over your nose and mouth when you go out in public

–Keep your distance from others (6 feet)

–Stay home if you are ill

–Clean then sanitize surfaces (e.g. tabletops, door knobs and cell phones)

–Wash your hands often with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer

-Cough into a tissue or into the crook of your elbow

-Avoid touching your face

 If you or a loved one develops symptoms of COVID19, please call the hotline 877-WELL or 800- WELL (9355) for further guidance. If the person is severely ill, call the 811 (emergency hotline) or call ahead to the Accident and Emergency Department of your nearest hospital for help and go in immediately.