The Ministry of Health of Saint Lucia on Saturday has noted the ongoing situation of COVID-19 across the globe. The Minister of Health noted that nations across Europe, North America as well as Asia continue to report a significant surge in cases of COVID-19.
The Caribbean nation of Saint Lucia, like other neighbouring nations, continues to report a decrease in the overall COVID-19 samples being collected for the testing process.
Additionally, the Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs are aware of increased home testing with the rapid kits of coronavirus. It is further keeping a close eye as these can directly contribute to underestimation of the true incidence of COVID-19 cases across Saint Lucia.
Although, the Health Ministry continues to observe a continuous decline in the severity of COVID-19 in Saint Lucia, as reflected by the decrease in the number of hospitalizations and deaths. However, the government of Saint Lucia has shown mindfulness of the possibility of a recurrent increase in cases, as observed in other nations.
“Additionally, there are other respiratory problems other than COVID-19, such as the Respiratory Syncytial Virus and Influenza Virus, which are affecting many nations. Because of the ease of cross-border travel, the circulation of virus in one nation poses a challenge to all nation, which means that we as an island must not let our guard down,” says the government of Saint Lucia.
By practising the following prevention and control measures we can reduce the transmission of all of these infectious respiratory illnesses:
– Physical distancing, including remaining in isolation if you are ill
– Wearing of masks (particularly in crowded areas and for persons who are symptomatic)
– Hand hygiene
– And remaining up to date with your seasonal influenza and COVID-19 vaccines
Both the influenza and COVID-19 vaccines are available at Wellness Centres around the island. The Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs thanks the public for its support and will continue to provide updates on the COVID-19 situation on the island.
