Ministry of Health reports two new confirmed cases of COVID-19

The Ministry of Health wishes to advise that on Friday 19th June 2020, the National Public Health Laboratory reported two new cases of Covid-19. These are the first reported positive cases of Covid-19 since 25th April 2020 and brings the total number of cases for the TCI to 14 since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Both individuals are presently in quarantine and neither has been hospitalized. One of the persons tested is a returning resident who was already in quarantine at the time of the test as per the requirements for repatriated residents from overseas.

The second individual was identified in the community and was placed in quarantine pending the test results. Contact tracing including quarantine and testing of close contacts will be undertaken by the Public Health Team.

The General Public is advised that as a part of the Ministry of Health’s protocols, all returning residents are being tested prior to being released from quarantine.  Additionally, the Ministry of Health, through the National Public Health Laboratory,  has been carrying out wider testing including front line officers, domestic travelers, and returning regional and international travelers who are residents.

Covid-19 is a viral illness which is spread from person to person through droplets produced by an infected person coughing, sneezing or talking which can enter another person’s mouth or nose.

The general public is reminded to be aware of the symptoms and signs of Covid-19 which include cough, fever and shortness of breath. Anyone with these symptoms should immediately call the Health Hotlines on 232 9444 or 333 0911.

Everyone is reminded to take the following precautions at all times;

  1. Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
  2. If soap and water are not readily available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.
  3. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
  4. Cover your cough or sneeze.
  5. Stay at home and call the Health hotlines if you have Covid-19 symptoms.
  6. Avoid close contact with people who are sick, even inside your home.
  7. Wear face coverings when in public.
  8. Maintain social distancing of at least 6 feet from other persons.

For additional information, please visit the Ministry of Health’s website on https://www.gov.tc/moh/coronavirus/ or our Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/tcihealthpromotions/.