Tobago has recorded its first confirmed case of the Gamma variant, (also known as the Brazilian or P1 variant). 

As such, the Division and TRHA are ramping-up testing for variants of concern and will continue to provide updates if any variants are detected in Tobago.

Additionally, systems are being prepared to deal with the Delta variant, which is now the dominant strain globally.

The Delta variant is responsible for all major spread and most unvaccinated deaths in the United Kingdom, United States and other countries.  There are now have 4.16 million COVID-19 deaths globally and more than 194 million cases.

Acting County Medical Officer, Dr Tiffany Hoyte, said: “the Gamma variant circulating in our community is  contributing to the rise in cases. The presence of this variant means that the fight to save lives and to reduce the spread of the virus will become more difficult.

Since it is more contagious than the original virus, we expect more cases, and with more cases comes more deaths. Our aim is to save lives and prevent persons from being hospitalized. The key to achieving this is to get most of our population vaccinated. Getting vaccinated reduces your personal risk of infection and protects against getting severe illnesses and death. Having most of our population vaccinated will decrease the rate at which the virus spreads.”