DWINDLING NUMBERS OF COVID-19 CASES IN SAINT LUCIA

As of March 13th, 2022, Saint Lucia has diagnosed a total of 22,857 COVID-19 cases in country, with 38 active cases. The daily infection rate for the last 7 days is 4.7 per 100,000 population per day which represents a 41% reduction from the previous seven days. The average testing positivity over the last seven days is 5% compared to the national average of 16.6%, and the transmission rate is 0.5. We have noted a total of 365 COVID-19 deaths. We have 3 positive COVID-19 cases admitted at the Respiratory Hospital, 1 case is severely ill.

This past week, we continued to register dwindling numbers of COVID-19 cases. The COVID- 19 public health indicators are within normal range. However, the Ministry continues to monitor the development of rising cases of the highly transmissible Omicron sub-variant BA.2 in some countries.

The Ministry of Health reminds everyone of the following important measures as COVID-19 continues to be a threat:

• –  Avoid large crowds and crowded areas including large meetings and social gatherings

• –  Ensure safe physical distancing for face-to-face meetings and other activities

• –  Ensure the protocols are maintained at all workplaces and sectors, on minibuses, gyms,

  hardware stores, supermarkets and recreational facilities

• –  Use face mask when in public places

• –  Ensure regular cleaning of surfaces and sanitation of all business establishments and environments

• –  If you develop respiratory symptoms, seek medical care and avoid contact with others.

• –  Ensure you remain in isolation if you are positive for COVID-19, or in quarantine if you were a direct contact of a case.

The Pfizer, Astra Zeneca and Johnson and Johnson vaccines are available at the various Wellness Centres as per the published schedule. These vaccines have been proven to be safe and effective in protecting persons from developing COVID-19, its severe forms, complications, hospitalizations and death. The booster vaccine is also available for persons who have been fully vaccinated for over 6 months. Everyone who has not been vaccinated is urged to get vaccinated urgently.

We appeal to all organizations, public and private sector, to ensure the strengthening of all public health protocols. Let us strive to keep the number of cases low as we live, work, study and recreate safely with COVID-19.