Eight Covid-19  deaths reported by the Ministry of Health on Wednesday have put the overall death toll at 1,252. 

Meantime, with 194 new infections and 323 recoveries reported over a 24 hour period, the active case load has dropped below 5,000 to 4,960 with 294 of those patients in hospital.

Latest statistics from the Health Ministry show that 494,625 people have vaccinated with one shot to date, while 377,398 are fully inoculated.

Twenty-five people were administered a Johnson & Johnson single dose vaccine as rollout began today.

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.