Covid counter: No new deaths in 7 days; MoH warns citizens to stay vigilant during holidays

There have been no new deaths due to Covid-19 for the last seven days. The Ministry of Health reported that the death toll for the virus remains at 111.

The ministry’s update also reported 24 new cases, three of which were returning nationals. There have been 5904 total positive cases reported since March, with 509 currently active cases.

Epidemiologist Dr Karmesh LD Sharma, speaking at the health ministry’s media conference, cautioned the population to take special care as the Divali holiday approached. Among his recommendations, he urged citizens to have virtual dinners and celebrations instead of in-person gatherings.

At the same conference, epidemiologist Dr Avery Hinds said that contact tracing showed that the virus was being spread through social gatherings, even small ones. He also reminded the population to follow the health guidelines to stop the spread of the virus.

The Ministry of Health reminds members of the public to adhere to the ‘new normal’ and:

• Wear a mask over your nose and mouth when you go out in public;
• Keep your distance from others (six feet);
• Stay home if you are ill;
• Clean then sanitise surfaces, such as tabletops, doorknobs and cell phones;
• Wash your hands often with soap and water or use an alcohol-based sanitiser;
• Cough into a tissue or the crook of your elbow;
• Avoid touching your face.

Persons are urged to call Covid-19 hotline numbers: 877-WELL, 87-SWRHA or 877-3742 (Trinidad) and 800-HEAL (Tobago) if they feel unwell; or they can report a possible breach of Covid-19 regulations by calling 555, or sending messages—inclusive of photographs and videos—to the Police App or via WhatsApp to 482-GARY.