The Ministry of Health has commenced its regular press conferences since the announcement of another positive COVID-19 case in Dominica.

At the press conference, Senior Environmental Health Officer Ray Robinson had the task of putting the pandemic in perspective and informing the nation of the important duties performed by the Environmental Health Department.

“We are facing a global health crisis unlike any we have ever experienced in Dominica and probably the world. One that is spreading human suffering, affecting the global economy and creating a phenomenon known as the ‘new normal’. We have no choice but to face this beast head on. As part of Primary Health Care, we at the Environmental Health Department have a critical role to play. This begins at the ports of entry where teams of competent, motivated, dedicated Environmental Health Officers are stationed”.

He said that the officers rate responsible to board every flight to ascertain the health of passengers,  ensure that masks are being worn, social distancing is being observed at all times and hands are being sanitized. Officers also responsible to monitor businesses to verify adherence to protocols.

Meanwhile National Epidemiologist, Dr. Shaluddin Ahmed reported that the total number of confirmed cases remain at 20 and that the 2 new cases are asymptomatic and doing well. They are still at the COVID treatment center. He said 39 contacts have been identified, 22 of them negative while 17 are still pending.