The Health Ministry is reporting 273 new Covid-19 cases today, however the number of active cases of the virus has gone down to 9,610, as 518 patients recovered over the last 24 hours.

Deaths continue to rise, however, with 14 more fatalities taking the overall death toll to 630.

A total of 144,502 people have been vaccinated for Covid-19 with one dose, while another 7,157 have been fully inoculated with two shots.

This means on Thursday alone, a total of 9,166 vaccines were administered (7,905 first dose, 1,261 second dose).

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.