Dominica fears community transmission of COVID-19 as three more tests positive

Dominica: Health Minister of Dominica, Dr Irving McIntyre declared three more coronavirus cases in the country which brings the total number of confirmed cases to 38, while there are only nine active cases in the Caribbean country.

Dr Irving McIntyre stated that these additional coronavirus cases had been discovered in the past seven days, and the ministry is concerned that the public has relaxed their approaches towards the coronavirus pandemic.

"We recognise that we are in the festive season as the country is celebrating its independence and various mass gatherings have been planned, however, based on the protocols which have been outlined by the ministry of health, community transmission could be imminent," stated health minister Irving McIntyre.

Keeping in mind the increasing coronavirus cases in the country, health minister feared the community transmission and stated that wearing masks, physical distancing at work sanitising is extremely important.

"We must all be reminded that COVID-19 is transmitted by respiratory droplets, these droplets are expelled into the air and when we breathe, eat, talk. Nose, mouth and eyes are the paths of entry of this virus." stated the health minister.

Furthermore, Dr Irving McIntyre stated that to save ourselves from the virus, we all must keep our hands sanitised and practice social-distancing and also practice respiratory etiquettes, including the usage of face masks.

He also advised the people to sanitise frequently touched surfaces which include door handles, railings and tables.

He added that ministry of health would commence its second round of community testing surveillance initiative by this weekend in Castle Bruce, Marigot and Roseau health districts while the next four health districts of Grand Bay, St Josephs, La Plaine and Portsmouth will be done in the following weekend.

Dr Irving McIntyre stated that the first community testing surveillance initiative was done in May and June. He encouraged people to fully participate in this drive to monitor the happenings of communities.