The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Dominica is now seven. It seven cases were confirmed within a week – two UK returnees brought home the virus with them to Dominica, and five other persons probably got infected after having contact with the two. This fact was revealed by Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit during a public address to members of the general public.
Skerrit said the additional cases were reported to him by the Minister of Health, Dr. Irvine McIntyre. He said the new cases occurred because of association with those already under observation in isolation.
This means that at least five persons are known to have contracted the virus as a consequence of coming into contact, in one way or the other, with one or the other, with one of the persons who was tested positive and who would have brought the virus from abroad.
Hon. Roosevelt Skerrit: Prime Minister of Dominica
In order to arrest the spread of the disease within and outside the island, Skerrit said the government will elevate health and security protocols to Level 3. He said that, effective March 26, all commercial air and sea access shall be suspended and this includes non-essential, service-oriented, pleasure craft.
“The same order of March 28th applies to ships, boats and yachts not visiting Dominica for the express purpose of bringing in vitally-needed cargo and other supplies to Dominica,” he added. “All air and sea arrivals must, henceforth, be granted permission to enter by the office of the Chief Medical Officer.”
The prime minister urged Dominicans abroad to return home if they wish to within the time-frame available before the lockdown goes into effect, and the same applies to people wishing to leave the island.
Dominicans abroad wishing to return home in the short term should act now to schedule travel within the time frame of this order. The same applies to Dominicans and visitors desirous of leaving Dominica. You have but a short time to do this.
Hon. Roosevelt Skerrit: Prime Minister of Dominica
A ban has also been placed on all social gatherings where people exceed 10, and all social and sporting activities in Dominica are now suspended in the renewed efforts to curb the spread of COVID-19. He said the government is in the process of securing a 125-bed facility to manage confirmed cases.
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