Dominica: 6 new cases of COVID-19 reported in Portsmouth, Govt’ bans public gatherings

Dominica: After witnessing new coronavirus cases in Portsmouth, the Dominica government imposed new restrictions, dropping all gatherings. 

Dominica Minister of Health Wellness and New Health Investment Dr Irving McIntyre asserted that there is no need for an alarm or panic.

He further noted that six new COVID-19 cases had been found in Portsmouth, bringing the total number of active cases to sixteen.

Moreover, Health Minister added that the six new cases are connected with the two cases that were found on July 28, 2021, when three people with flu-like symptoms seemed at the Reginald Fitzroy Armour Hospital, where rapid antigen tests were conducted, and two came coronavirus positive.

Two out of the three rapid test results were positive. The two were admitted to the St. James coronavirus isolation unit. Health Minister said that these new cases could be related to illegal entry. 

Additionally, He said that people had let their guards down against the pandemic, allowing new infections.

The Emergency Health Operating Center has been activated, and all primary contacts after taking swabs for RT-PCR are isolated at the government quarantine facility.

Due to the rising in coronavirus cases, the government has chosen to cancel all social and festive gatherings for the weekend, including church services in Capuchin to Dublanc. 

Minister has also requested all churches around the island to strictly adhere to protocols, including wearing face masks and social distancing.

Minister confirmed that the people must not panic as the government reviews the situation proactively and taking out an extensive contact tracing programme.

All football matches scheduled for have been called off; also Valvoline We United vs LA Stars on Saturday and Sagicor South East vs Happi Bath Estate carded for Sunday.

Health Minister Dr McIntyre encouraged people to follow the health guidelines, including wearing face masks strictly, maintaining 6-feet distance, washing hands, keeping frequently touched surfaces sanitized and consulting health officials.