Antigua and Barbuda has recorded 39 new cases of COVID-19.

Among the new cases are returning nationals who were recently repatriated from the Dominican Republic.   

The news comes two days after Health Minister Molwyn Joseph told the nation that the country was “essentially COVID free”, with no active cases.

Officials say all 39 had been placed in quarantine since their arrival in Antigua.

The new batch of imported cases brings the country’s total number of confirmed cases to 65.

Health authorities in Antigua and Barbuda are carded to hold a press conference on Wednesday evening where it is expected more information on the new cases will be divulged.