Guyana yesterday reported four new cases of the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19).
During the Ministry of Public Health’s daily COVID-19 update, the Deputy Chief Medical Officer (DCMO) Dr Karen Gordon-Boyle reported that from results of the 25 samples that were tested in the previous 24 hours, four were positive, bringing the total number of confirmed COVID-19 cases to 290.
Additionally, she reported that nine more persons have now fully recovered from the disease, bringing the total number of recovered cases to 134. The number of deaths related to COVID-19 –16 – and persons in the COVID-19 Intensive Care Unit (ICU) remains the same.
There are 140 active COVID-19 cases, all of which are in isolation, while there are 19 persons in institutional quarantine.
Meanwhile, Gordon-Boyle urged persons to make use of mobile testing unit or health facilities that are available in their respective communities if they are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms or have been in contact with a person who has tested positive for the disease. “The earlier you seek medical assistance, the easier it is for your health personnel to provide the timely care and treatment that you need,” she added.
Subsequently, she stated that the testing capacity in Guyana compares favourably with some of the other countries in the Caribbean. In fact, she said, Guyana is only behind Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago in terms of testing rate. “So bravo to the people in the reference lab who are going above and beyond to ensure that the tests are run and ensure that results are available in a timely manner,” she further stated.
In conclusion, Gordon-Boyle stated that if persons will be making their trips to markets and shops this weekend, they should ensure that they protect themselves by observing all the guidelines that are outlined to prevent the spread of COVID-19. She also stated that if persons are going to the seawalls, they should ensure that they keep their distance, sanitize their hands regularly and go home before the 6 pm to 6 am curfew takes effect.
