The Ministry of Health has advised that as of this afternoon278 samples have been tested by the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) of which 49 are positive.

The spike in cases is due to the decision made by the Ministry of Health to perform COVID-19 tests on all of the sixty-eight (68) nationals who recently returned from a cruise, as they were deemed to be in an extremely high risk category based on factors such as age, pre-existing conditions and exposure to other COVID-19 positive passengers.

The ministry said: “All persons who tested positive for COVID-19 were transferred to the Couva Hospital and Multi-Training Facility, which is the designated COVID-19 tertiary level facility. These patients were moved to this facility to ensure that tertiary level healthcare would be immediately accessible if their symptoms worsened.
Those who tested negative for COVID-19 remain at the original remote quarantine facility where they are being constantly monitored. The Ministry will continue to follow the existing protocols for those persons.
The public is also urged to take the following personal hygiene measures to protect themselves and their loved ones from COVID-19:
· Wash your hands properly with soap and water
o Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if water and soap are not available
· Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze
o Dispose of tissue immediately after using
o Cough and sneeze into the crook of your elbow if you do not have a tissue
· Avoid touching your face
· Sanitize hard surfaces (e.g. table tops, handrails, doorknobs and trolleys) as often as possible.
· Avoid close contact with people who have flu-like symptoms
· Stay home if you are ill