Castries – Health authorities say while St Lucia has reached a “slow rate of decline” in coronavirus (COVID-19) cases, an increase in social activities over the past few weeks is contributing to an increase in cases.
In an update report on the fourth wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs said since July 25, officials recorded 7 208 COVID-19) cases at an average of 69 cases daily.
“At present we have 309 active cases in country. The majority of the cases are from the Castries, Gros- Islet, Vieux-Fort and Babonneau districts. The daily infection rate for the past week was 11.5 per 100 000 per day which is a four per cent decrease from the previous week,” the ministry said.
“We note that we have reached a slow rate of decline at this point,” the ministry said, noting also that it is managing a COVID-19 outbreak at the Bordelais Correctional Facility – 27 inmates have been admitted to the Respiratory Hospital, with one in critical condition and seven severely ill.
“During the fourth wave, St Lucia recorded 170 COVID-19 deaths out of a total of 260 COVID- 19 deaths, with a case fatality rate of 2.4 per cent. Males account for 56 per cent of the deaths,” the ministry said.
It said that while there were 309 active cases, this is above the required threshold indicator of 100 or less cases targeted.
The authorities said that they are making available free of charge, both the Pfizer and AstraZeneca vaccine.
“These vaccines have been proven to be safe and effective in protecting persons from developing COVID-19, its severe forms, complications, hospitalisations and death.” (CMC)
