Five new COVID-19 cases identified in Dominica: Dr Ahmed

Roseau, Dominica: There is a total of thirteen active coronavirus cases in Dominica. National Epidemiologist Dr Shalauddin Ahmed stated on Wednesday that in total 72 cases have successfully recovered and there have been no virus-related deaths on the island so far.

Dr Ahmed added that over the past week, five new COVID-19 cases have been identified. He noted that three of these five patients discovered during rapid testing at the Douglas Charles Airport, while one case was detected during routine testing at the quarantine facility.

As per the National Epidemiliogist, the fifth patient was identified via pre-travel screening.

These five recent COVID-19 patients include three people between the ages of 35-40, while two are over 70 years stated the National Epidemiologist.

Furthermore, he announced that two of these patients are foreign nationals.

"These patients are asymptomatic, and a total of 20 contacts were immediately identified from one of the cases," added Dr Ahmed.

The country is moving forward to conduct contact tracing in nursing facilities and in selected areas that are being considered to be "hot zones" stated, Dr Ahmed.

Furthermore, he asked people to be cautious and practice respiratory and hand hygiene. Dr Ahemed advised Dominicans to maintain a distance of at least 6 feet from each other at public places and always fear a face mask.

He stated that wearing a face mask in public places reduces the risk of catching the virus. He noted that it is extremely significant to wash our hands frequently and clean the most-touched surfaces with alcohol-based products.

Dr Ahmed stated that the government continues its efforts to limit the increasing number of cases.