St Lucia: Ministry of Health & Wellness of St Lucia urged people to celebrate Easter weekend carefully by following COVID-19 guidelines.
Ministry in a press release said, “Traditionally, it’s a time for family activities and socialization. This year may be different for many with the protocols that have been put in place for the management of COVID-19.”
Ministry further noted that despite the difficulties in the past year, let us remain focused on what is truly important: health, family and life.
“We acknowledge and applaud the public for their cooperation during the last few difficult months of managing this third and intense wave of COVID-19 in country.” It added.
The ministry has asked the public to celebrate the long weekend responsibly.
“Avoid excessive alcohol consumption, avoid driving under the influence, drive within the speed limits and manage conflict safely, especially since we note the increases in violent crime over the last few days,” Ministry added.
Ministry further stated that if accessing the beach, do so with caution and monitor young children closely. The Easter weekend is noted for drownings and near-drowning events.
In relation to COVID-19, the public is reminded that although the Ministry of Health notes the flattening of this 3rd wave, we still have over one hundred active COVID cases in the country.
“We would like to alert the public, that mass crowd activities & open socialization are not recommended nor allowed at this time in our management of the coronavirus pandemic. We are still at high risk at this point. ” Ministry added.
Ministry informed that the Public Health Team is working to reduce the active cases to less than 50 to enable safe opening up of activities. We ask the public to work with us & continue to be patient. The premature social activity will lead to an upsurge of COVID-19 cases, given the exponential transmission typical of this virus.
Health Ministry of St Lucia further stated that everyone is reminded that we need to continue adhering to the infection prevention & control measures that are proven to reduce transmission of the COVID-19 Virus and keep us safe. These include the following:
– Wash your hands often with soap and flowing water or use alcohol-based hand sanitizer
– Wear your mask which covers your nose, mouth and chin
– Maintain physical distance from others and avoid crowded activities
Ramanjot Kaur is a dedicated journalist with a Master’s in Journalism and Mass Communication, specializing in economic and political news reporting with incisive analysis and integrity.
