News

A press conference was hosted by the Ministry of Health, Wellness and the Environment today, Thursday, 7th May 2020, at the National Insurance Services (NIS) conference room, to provide the nation with a Situation Report on the COVID-19 Pandemic.

Hon. Robert T. L. V. Browne, Minister of Health Wellness and the Environment, delivered opening remarks.

It was reported that the number of COVID-19 cases recorded in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, as at the time of the situation report, is seventeen (17) persons. Nine (9) persons have so far recovered, while  there are eight (8) active cases. To date there have been no COVID-19 related deaths.

Currently, discussions are ongoing with matters such as protecting borders, health care front line workers, schools, travel, etc.  It was stated that the Ministry of Health, Wellness and the Environment continues to ensure the health and welfare of all Vincentians are safeguarded.  It was emphasized that "clean hands make a difference between life and death".

It was also reported that the isolation facility in Argyle is now completed.

Measures to combat the spread of COVID-19 were emphasized, as well as containment of the virus.  The acquisition of drugs, as part of the treatment process, was also mentioned.

Measures to determine what actions should be taken during the COVID-19 pandemic were based on six main guidelines as follows:

1. The COVID-19 situation should be controlled.
2. Sufficient capacity is in place.
3. Standard outbreaks are minimum.
4. Preventative measures are put in place.
5. Manage the risks of importation.
6. Communities are fully engaged.

Among personnel present at the press conference were:  Minister of Health, Wellness and the Environment, Hon. Robert T. L. V. Browne; Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Health, etc., Mr. Cuthberth Knights; Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Simone Keizer-Beache; Medical Officer of Health; Dr. Jose Davy, Infectious Diseases Specialist; Chief Laboratory Technician and Dr. Jerrol Thompson, Infectious Diseases Specialist.

Various media houses posed questions and they were responded to by the relevant personnel.

SOURCE: Information Technology Services Division (I.T.S.D.)