Key points and live updates from the February 25, 2021 COVID management press conference featuring Prime Minister Mia Mottley.
- There will be a CARICOM approach to many of the problems we face because we face common problems.
- The way out of this pandemic is through vaccinations.
- To date, 29 186 vaccinations were done, including just over 3 000 vaccinations today.
- That was accomplished in about two weeks.
- The PM visited the Maurice Byer Polyclinic on Thursday and will be visiting a number of polyclinics over the next week.
- She thanked the healthcare officials and volunteers working at this time.
- Mottley highlighted a group of doctors who will be going into homes next week to vaccinate those who are too ill to travel, can’t take the risk or are immobile.
- Government is planning to have the equipment and training in software programmes.
- There are plans to secure additional vaccines.
- Everyone who wants to be vaccinated will be given the opportunity to do so.
- Vaccinations are not mandatory in Barbados.
- However, they are required to travel to some countries e.g. for yellow fever.
- Many people have received the vaccinations and they are well.
- It is the direction we must go if we are to turn the corner from this awful pandemic.
- Even with vaccinations, you must still practice safe hygiene – wearing masks, physical distancing and washing of hands.
- Do not drop your guard.
- The PM urged those who are not considering taking the vaccine to do so.
- We are still in the throes of wave of national positive cases.
- Today we had 42 positive tests.
- I am not about the blame game.
- Stay focused on the challenge of winning the battle against this pandemic.
- We welcome all commentaries and observations.
- I am proud of Barbadians as we battle this.
- As we strive for the gold standard, errors will occur, but we will correct as quickly as we can.
- There are no perfect templates.
- While we are concerned, we have to be cautiously optimistic as we go forward.
- 7 PCR machines are working now – one dedicated to the Queen Elizabeth Hospital.
- Despite rising numbers – and a spike in last 3 days – we have the ability to turn the corner.
- A young person is intubated
- Too many young people feel immune to catching COVID-19.
- They are very vulnerable and must heed protocols.
There will be a phased reopening from Monday, March 1, 2021.
- A sharp shutdown and a gradual reopening is the course we will take.
- Beach access: 6 to 9 a.m., and now 3 to 6 p.m. each day.
- No use of pleasure craft at this stage.
- We will be encouraging outdoor commercial activity wherever practical.
- Construction, agriculture, farming, fishing, automotive – will be allowed to resume their work activity.
- Also, hardware, appliance, plumbing, electronic, etc. can open.
- Hairdressers, boutiques and barbers remain closed for now.
- We will continue to disburse financial assistance to those affected.
- We will permit curbside pick-ups and drive-thrus.
- Refrain from selling food on the shoulder of a highway.
- It is not safe to the patron nor from a the public health perspective
- Do not sell food along the ABC Highway.
- Coconut vendors need to clean up the area after selling.
- Government entities like the post office, law courts, registry and land registry will reopen.
- Administrative offices can reopen with minimum staff.
- Those who can function effectively at home should continue to do so.
- Those who work in the public service would be guided by permanent secretaries.
- Massage parlours, gyms – indoor/outdoor sports will remain closed
- There can be use of pools in hotels and public areas under the supervision of management.
- March 2021 cannot be a time for partying; COVID loves parties more than you.
- Partying is a bad idea; silly and selfish.
- The protocols are clear for churches/funerals/weddings.
- Let us act responsibility especially as it relates to funerals.
- I have seen brandy being poured over coffins, it is not called for.
- If the numbers don’t level out, I will be back here and applying brakes.
- We are reopening slowly so we can manage the situation.
- You must act responsibility and continue the public health protocols.
- Supermarkets will open on Monday to Saturday for the same time, but not on Sundays
- Curfew remains from 7 p.m. to 6 a.m.
- We are trusting you to allow us to ease the pressure a bit.
- Gas stations will be open on Sundays, but not the automarts.
- From Monday to Saturday, the minimarts at gas stations will be open.
- The vaccines were free so we could not charge for them, but they will be expensive.
- There will be a vaccine fund, the details of which will be announced at a later date.
- We will be asking people and corporate Barbados to donate to the fund.
