The Ministry of Health is advising the public that COVID-19 cases are again on
the rise in Antigua and Barbuda and residents should immediately take steps to
prevent themselves from being infected by this disease, which can be fatal.
To this end, effective today, the Ministry of Health is re-introducing the wearing of
masks at the Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre, as well as the community health
clinics around the country.
In a press release issued on the weekend, the ministry noted that on May 5, 2023,
the World Health Organisation declared the end of the ‘Public Health Emergency
for the COVID-19 Virus.’ However, it noted that the threat of COVID-19 and its
associated risks remain and are very evident, as the virus has not been eliminated.
“The Ministry of Health recognizes that we are now in the festive season leading to
Carnival and wishes to remind the public that they should continue to observe the
protocols already established, being mindful that during the hosting of these fetes,
there are large social gatherings where persons are in close contact with each other.
We also wish to advise that if you should be experiencing cold or flu-like
symptoms, you should wear a mask especially when going out in public. This is for
your protection as well as the safety of the persons around you, including your
relatives and friends,” the media release stated.
The ministry is also advising persons experiencing persistent moderate/severe
respiratory symptoms, that it strongly recommends that they visit the nearest health
centre or care provider to be properly evaluated.
The ministry is also urging residents to continue to practice good handwashing and
workplace hygiene. Good cough and sneeze etiquette and it is encouraging all to
wear a mask as much as possible, in public to prevent infection.
Additionally, everyone entering the public hospital, or any healthcare facility
should wear masks.
