Antigua: All 106 samples sent for lab testing comes COVID-19 negative

St Johns: Antigua and Barbuda have not recorded any new coronavirus cases; the recent laboratory reports noted that all samples have tested negative for the contagious viral disease. The declaration was made by the Antiguan Health ministry after receiving test reports from the Sir Lester Bird Mount St. John Medical Centre and the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA).

Ministry of Health, Wellness and the Environment stated that over 106 samples were processed by Sir Lester Bird MSJMC and CARPHA, and all of them have tested negative.

Besides this, the ministry noted that four people had been confirmed to be recovered from coronavirus, and the total number of recovered patients stands at 1206. While, the total number of persons with laboratory-confirmed COVID-19 cases in Antigua and Barbuda remains 1,258, which is inclusive of 14 active cases.

Ministry of Health, Wellness and the Environment further stated that no active coronavirus patient is hospitalized, and all are showing medium to moderate symptoms.

Meanwhile, 32,759 first doses of the Covid-19 vaccines have been administered, while 9,250-second doses were administered. The country is primarily using the Oxford Astrazeneca doses manufactured by the Serum Insitute of India. The doses had come as a donation from the Republic of India. Health Authorities continue to advise people to wear face masks, practice hand and respiratory hygiene, avoid gatherings, and maintain at least 6-feet of distance from others at public places.

The ministry of health of Antigua has also collaborated with several organizations to provide $50 grocery vouchers and even laptops in some cases to those who receive their COVID-19 vaccines in the country. The offers have assisted in a large number of people getting ready to be vaccinated.

PAHO Director Carissa F. Etienne have emphasized more robust vaccination programmes in Latin America and the Caribbean. She had stated earlier this month that the region is severely impacted by the coronavirus and vaccine is the only way to come out of the social dillema.