THREE persons have lost their lives to the dreaded novel coronavirus (COVID-19) within the past 24 hours, taking the death toll to 117.
The Ministry of Health has identified the recent victims as being three males, ages 68, 79 and 80 years old, all from Region One (Barima-Waini). The men were said to be receiving treatment at a local health facility, but died despite attempts by doctors to save their lives.

The Ministry of Health expressed condolences to the families of these victims and pledged to make every effort to provide all the necessary support during this difficult time.
Region One has so far recorded 626 cases of COVID-19, following closely behind Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica) which has the highest number of cases, 1,798.
On a national level, health authorities have so far tested 17,482 persons, with 13,632 being negative and 3,850 positive.
Some 54 of those positive cases were recorded within the past 24 hours alone. And while 2,839 persons have recovered from this scourge, 117 persons have lost their lives, and there are still 895 active cases.

Of those active cases, 64 persons are in institutional isolation, 815 in home isolation, and 16 in the COVID-19 Intensive Care Unit (ICU).
Persons are being encouraged to take extra precaution, because there is no approved cure or specific treatment as yet for the disease. Guyanese are also reminded to observe the protocols established in the COVID-19 emergency measures.

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), COVID-19 is an infectious disease caused by a newly-discovered coronavirus. Most people who become sick with COVID-19 will experience mild to moderate symptoms, and recover without special treatment.

The WHO had said that 81 per cent of the persons who contract COVID-19 will have mild symptoms, while 14 per cent will have severe symptoms, and five per cent will need intensive care.

Anyone who displays any of the symptoms associated with COVID-19, or needs any additional information, can contact the COVID-19 Emergency numbers: 231 1166, 226 7480 or 624 6674 immediately, or visit the ministry’s website at www.health.gov.gy.