The Health Ministry reports 633 new Covid-19 cases in its update today, pushing the number of active cases over the 9,000 mark at 9,192.

The positive cases are from samples taken between May 21st to May 27th.

Deaths continue to rise, with 18 additional fatalities reported over the last 24 hours.

The death toll from the virus now stands at 458.

Meanwhile, 345 recoveries were reported on Friday, after 299 recoveries were each reported on Thursday and Friday.

There are now 457 Covid-19 patients in hospital, signalling 11 new admissions over the last 24 hours, with 7,926 patients  in home isolation.

A total of 84,900 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.