-spike seen in Region Four cases

ONE year after the first confirmed COVID-19 case, Guyana has recorded a total of 8,929 cases, and the most recent numbers show a spike in Region Four.Additionally, the number of fatalities rose to 205, on Tuesday, following the death of a 59-year-old man from Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica). He succumbed while receiving treatment at a medical facility.

Since the first case was confirmed on March 11, 2020, the government has implemented various strategies to aid in the fight against the virus. These include mass education exercises through collaboration with local DJs and radio personalities, and the implementation of the National COVID-19 Emergency Measures.

On March 10, 2021, the Health Ministry disclosed that a total of 81 new cases have been recorded within a 24-hour period. According to the ministry, this figure includes 43 cases from Region Four, which indicates a significant spike in transmission within the region.

Of the total figure recorded, 44 are males with the remaining 37 being females. Region Three recorded 26 new cases, while Regions One, Two, Seven, Eight and 10 recorded one new case each. Region Five recorded an additional three new cases, while Regions Six and Nine recorded two new cases each.

It was reported that the 81 new cases were recorded from a total of 743 tests. The country has now recorded a total of 8,929 confirmed cases since the first COVID-19 case was recorded. Following the recovery of 11 more persons, the total number of persons who have recovered to date stands at 8,211. The country presently has 520 active cases.

Currently, there are 32 persons in institutional isolation, 472 are in home isolation and eight are in institutional quarantine. Many of the persons infected with the virus are said to be asymptomatic, that is, they are not exhibiting symptoms. Additionally, eight persons are being kept at the COVID-19 Intensive Care Unit (ICU) at the National Infectious Diseases Hospital at Liliendaal, Greater Georgetown.

The updated COVID–19 Emergency Measures are in force until March 31, 2021. They may be extended or amended by notice of the Minister of Health, after an assessment of the prevailing public health conditions of the pandemic.

As per the current measures, all persons are required to wear face masks when leaving their homes. Physical distancing and adequate sanitisation are also important. The current curfew time is from 22:30 hours to 04:00 hours Persons who are exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19 are asked to call the COVID-19 hotline numbers: 231-1166; 226-7480; or 180/181 for assistance.