-Health authorities say men account for over 85% of COVID-19 cases

MEN continue to account for a majority of the local Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) cases, with the latest statistics showing that men make up about 88 per cent of the existing cases and account for 80 per cent of the deaths related to COVID-19.

“I know many of you are macho and perhaps think that wearing a mask makes you seem less of a man, but there are times when you must put that pride aside and exercise wise judgement. This is the time, because COVID-19 is a silent killer and complying with the control measures is of paramount importance if your family is to be safe,” said Director of Primary Healthcare Services, Dr. Ertensia Hamilton, during a virtual COVID-19 update on Wednesday.

Based on recent statistics, Guyana has gone 24 hours without recording a new case of COVID-19, leaving the number of cases at 125, but a statistical analysis of the cases revealed that the male-female ratio is 71:54.

In further explaining, Dr. Hamilton said: “From our reports you would have been hearing that the ratio of males to females positively confirmed with the disease is significantly higher; today (Wednesday) it is 71: 54 and of those who have died eight out of 10 are males…further the age group under the lens is the 16-59 age group.

“So, my dear males, I am sure that you want to be around to hug and kiss your loved ones at home rather than be six feet under the ground in a cemetery somewhere. COVID-19 will mash you up and break up that same home circle in which you find comfort. So, don’t wear the mask on your chins, don’t sit way up under your friend, give him some space; physical distancing is a must and get off the streets before 18:00 hours. Home is the best and safest place. STAY HOME!”

Dr. Hamilton pled with persons to stop behaving recklessly and instead follow the control measures and guidelines in place, in order to not just safeguard their families, but also themselves and the entire population.
To date the total number of persons tested for COVID is 1,295 with the total number of negative cases being 1.170.

Of the positive cases, 47 persons have so far recovered, three are in the COVID-19 Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and 65 persons are in institutional isolation.

Health authorities continue to work towards strengthening the healthcare system to respond to COVID-19 on a long-term basis, and the potential and existing activities are part of the plan to have a comprehensive COVID-19 health network, whereby patients across the country’s 10 administrative regions will be able to access these services.

Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica) remains the epicentre of the disease, and there are a number of communities outside of Georgetown which have recorded cases.

Among communities on the East Coast Demerara (ECD) where cases have been recorded are: Atlantic Gardens, Friendship, Golden Grove, Good Hope, Lusignan, Plaisance, and Strathspey. Among communities on the East Bank Demerara (EBD) where there were cases are: Diamond, Grove, Land of Canaan, Providence, and Timehri.

Residents of the Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo), were, however, advised to be watchful and careful as Brazil has now become the country with the third-highest number confirmed coronavirus infections in the world, after registering a total of more than 250,000 cases. “You remain extremely vulnerable and therefore every resident must be prepared to be his brother’s keeper in order to ensure the safety of everyone,” said Dr. Hamilton.

Measures can be continuously implemented, but it is up to the individuals, that is the average Guyanese, to adhere to those measures and think seriously about flattening the curve (reducing the spread). The disease remains a serious issue, not just in Guyana, but globally.

And, according to global statistics, there are over 4.7 million cases of COVID-19, with over 316,000 deaths. And with no approved treatment or cure, there is no assurance that persons will survive after contracting the disease. In the absence of approved medications, governments and authorities across the world have employed a number of preventive measures to contain the spread of the disease.