The total number of confirmed cases of the Coronavirus in Guyana has climbed from 31 to 33.

This was confirmed by Minister of Public Health, Volda Lawrence who noted today that 132 persons have been tested thus far.The number of deaths attributed to the virus is 5.

She said that there are 4 persons in the COVID-19 Intensive Care Unit (ICU), and of that number, 1 person is in a critical condition.She added that 24 persons are in isolation while 38 are in institutional quarantine.

Minister Lawrence , during her update, pleaded with Guyanese to stay home unless it is absolutely necessary to go out.“We in the health sector beg of you to co-operate with us and just stay home,” she said.

In stressing the need for persons to stay home in light of those figures, Minister Lawrence said: “The numbers of confirmed cases and deaths are rising…we wish to reiterate that we can stop the transmission and reduce deaths if you follow the provided guidelines.

“You will not escape the virus if you continue to operate as if you do not care. COVID-19 is real and it is a killer so help us to help you stay alive. If you do not adhere it is likely that you will contract this disease and probably die.”

In her update on Tuesday, the minister said the curfew imposed by the authorities last Friday, will remain in effect until May and will change based on the response from Guyanese.