Saint Lucia records 32 new cases of COVID-19

Today January 15, 2021 the Ministry of Health received confirmation of thirty two new cases of COVID-19. This is from a batch of 271 COVID-19 tests with 32 positives and 239 negatives. This brings the total number of cases diagnosed in country to date to 576.

All of the cases are Saint Lucian nationals ranging in age from 3 months to 63 years. They are from the Castries, Micoud, Babonneau and Gros-Islet districts.

These individuals were seen at a community respiratory clinic, where they were assessed and tested for COVID-19. They were placed in quarantine by health practitioners pending the receipt of their test results. Arrangements have been made to place these individuals in isolation. At present, the contact tracing team is in the process of undertaking investigations as it relates to those cases.

The Ministry of Health also reported eight recoveries for today, Friday January 15, 2021. There are currently 240 active cases, with one of them requiring critical care and the other active cases are stable.

It is important as we continue to manage the increasing number of cases, it is necessary that we all keep our guard up. We must avoid social gatherings, limit our daily movements and other activities which will result in greater exposure to the virus. The recommended the infection prevention and control measures, if consistently adhered to, will reduce the spread of the virus.

• Frequently wash hands your with flowing water and soap
• Wear a mask when in public places and ensure it covers the mouth, nose and chin
• Maintain a six foot distance from others wherever possible
• Use a bleach solution to sanitize frequently touched surfaces and frequently handled objects
• Avoid contact with other people who have flu-like symptoms

If you are experiencing flu-like symptoms, it is important keep away from others and to urgently seek medical care at your closest community respiratory clinic for assessment.

The Ministry of Health and Wellness will continue providing updates to the public as new information becomes available.

For more information please contact the Office of the Chief Medical Officer or the Epidemiology Unit, at 468-5309/468-5317 respectively