President Irfaan Ali yesterday announced that Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, Hugh Todd has tested positive for the novel coronavirus and as such widespread contact tracing is expected to take place.
The announcement was made by President Ali during a special broadcast by the Office of the President during which he disclosed that Todd, had reported to him that he had come into contact with someone who had tested positive for COVID-19 and subsequently underwent testing which showed that he was positive for the virus. However, no indication was given as to whether the minister was showing any signs or symptoms of the virus.
“I have since advised him to inform all individuals, whom he came into contact with, to work with the Minister of Health to facilitate contact tracing and possible testing,” the president said. This now means that contact tracing on a large scale must be conducted as Todd and other ministers were in large gatherings since being sworn into office last Wednesday.
Todd was also at several events involving the visiting delegation from Suriname headed by its President Chandrikapersad Santokhi.
As a precautionary measure, Ali and a number of cabinet members were tested hours after the announcement of Todd’s positive test. Ministers are now being asked to work remotely until they receive the results of their tests. No indication was given as to when the results
of the cabinet members’ tests would be returned.
Ali stated that he believed it was best to update the general populace about the situation as he vowed that his government will be transparent and open. “There is no greater issue that requires transparency at every level than in the way we address COVID-19,” he declared.
Meanwhile, the president stated that his government has taken a comprehensive and holistic approach to handling the global pandemic which he noted prioritises testing and increases the provision of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). The president stated his commitment to doing everything necessary to ensure that Guyanese remain safe and urged everyone to follow the emergency safety guidelines.
