March 14, 2020

Government gives an update on Coronavirus approach

By Newsroom

National Security Minister Stuart Young has asked all returning nationals to self-quarantine when they arrive. Young was speaking at a press conference earlier today, which was held to discuss the government’s strategy for fighting the emergence of the Covid-19 virus. 

He also revealed that over the last 24 hours he has refused entry to an airplane and had to quell a situation at Piarco Airport after a potential passenger was denied from boarding a flight. He’s also refused at least two people from coming to Trinidad based on consultation. 

Thoracic Medical Director, Caura Hospital, Dr. Michelle Trotman revealed that one of the patients who tested positive was expected to make a full recovery within the next 21 days, while the other person who is critical is improving but slowly.

She asked that the population to be aware of what needs to be done to prevent the disease from entering the body, especially washing of hands. Dr. Trotman said that this is one of the most important precautions that a person can take. She added that most of the evidence points to the virus being mild unless a person is elderly or has underlying conditions such as diabetes and cancer.

Health Minister Terrence Deyalsingh reminded the public that Caura Hospital and Couva Hospital have been activated as the facilities to handle Covid-19 cases. He also said that all major hospitals will now have separate triage areas to deal with patients who exhibit flu like symptoms. Visiting hours at hospitals have now been restricted to once a day between 4pm-6pm and only one person will be allowed with a patient at a time. However, hospital staff will be allowed to use their discretion to allow more family members. He also said that he will be going to cabinet this weekend to propose a budget to handle the response to Covid-19.

The panel also called on the nation to be responsible when sharing information as a lot of misinformation has been circulating on social media. It was also suggested that imminent vacations be put on hold until the pandemic has ended.

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