Following the discovery of a COVID-19 case in Dominica last week, the contact tracing effort of the government has yeilded another positive case, bringing the total number of active cases in the country to two. According to PM Roosevelt Skerrit who made the announcement, the total number of positive cases in Dominica now tallies at 20.
“I want to say to us that we now have two active COVID-19 cases in Dominica and obviously this will place an added pressure on the health system,” Skerrit said. “But we are prepared, we have never stopped reviewing our plans…we have always said that once we reopen our borders as has been the case in every other country you will see one or two cases coming in.”
The prime minister said there is no cause for alarm since the government is fully in control of the situation. He however urged the populace to cooperate with the authorities by adhering to regulations set forth by the Ministry of Health. He said observing health guidelines would go a long way in eradicating the disease from Dominica and ensuring that infected visitors are isolated before they mix with the people.
Skerrit noted that there is no point to shut down the national borders, so long visitors undergo mandatory PCR tests and conduct themselves responsibly. He also warned against stigmatization of infected persons, saying everyone must work together by following health protocols to make the community safe for everyone.
Meanwhile, coordinator for the Committee for the Reopening of Borders, Dr. Laura Esprit, has announced the penalties for ignoring mandatory quarantine and flouting COVID-19 guidelines. According to her, anyone who flouts mandatory isolation risks a jail term of six months or a fine of $5,000, while anyone caught providing misinformation on health questionaires risks three months imprisonment or a penalty of $1,000.
Esprit added that people quarantined in government facility will be required to pay $100 for PCR tests as well as a $400 payment for the first night of accommodation. She said any other nights spent at the facility will incur a cost of $225 per night. Also, meals served to patients will be at $15 for breakfast and $20 for lunch as well as dinner. These fees will cover sanitation and maintenance of the facility.
This article is copyright © 2020 DOM767
