30th August 2021
Update on managing the increase in COVID-19 cases in St Lucia
By Ministry of Health
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The Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs continues to manage the fourth COVID19 wave in country. From July 25, 2021 we note 2,583 cases at an average of 74 cases per day. Over the last 14 days we note 5 COVID-19 deaths and we have 1,970 active cases in country. The daily infection rate for the past week was 72.9 per 100,000 per day and an average of 132.0 cases per day.
In relation to this new wave, from July 25, 2021 2,583 persons were positive. 51% are in the age group 25-49 years. 59% of the cases are female. The majority of the cases are from Castries, Gros- Islet, Babonneau and Dennery. Based on contact tracing data, the majority of the cases diagnosed are related to social activities. To date, from the positive cases diagnosed in country, 1.66% have been fully vaccinated.
The Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs is working to strengthen the public health system to continue managing the increased cases. We continue to note high numbers as we test the contacts of cases. Also, based on the long incubation period of this virus we continue to test and isolate contacts.
The response last weekend was not encouraging as the report from the enforcement agency included numerous breaches to curfew, large mass crowd activities at bars, beaches and private parties. We continue to ask the public to work with us and exhibit responsible behavior to manage this fourth COVID-19 wave.
This past week, the Ministry of Health and Wellness has continued collaboration with the Minibus Association. These meetings were aimed at discussing and strengthening collaborations and efforts in order to reduce the COVID-19 risk and to manage the spike in cases.
We continue to note positive cases related to this sector. We advise that the minibus drivers carry 10 or less passengers per load and that everyone keeps their mask on during the journey. Also, regular sanitation after every trip. It is important that the transmission risk be minimized to all who uses this valuable service.
At present we have available both the Pfizer and Astra Zeneca vaccine free of charge in country at the various wellness centers. Vaccination remains the most effective public health measure in managing infectious diseases. These vaccines have been proven to be safe and effective in protecting persons from developing COVID-19, its severe forms, complications, hospitalizations and death.
We continue to urge the public to access the various sites to get immunized at the soonest. Encourage your family and friends to get immunized so we can all be protected. We continue to advise the public to remain vigilant as increased transmission and risk of the Variants of Concerns is present. Let us all adhere to the protocols that are put in place to keep us safe. These include regular hand washing, use of face mask in public places, avoiding crowds and persons with respiratory symptoms and keeping frequently touched surfaces clean.
The Ministry of Health and Wellness will continue providing updates to the public as new information becomes available.
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