National Epidemiologist, Dr. Shalauddin Ahmed has reported that as of September 7th 2021, there are 68 new Covid-19 cases and 494 total active cases in Dominica. Of the active cases, there are 15 PCR positive cases and 479 rapid antigen positive cases.
According to Dr. Ahmed, the total number of Covid-19 related deaths has increased to six. On September 5th 2021, Dominica recorded the death of a 93 year old male who was both diabetic and hypertensive. Dr. Ahmed expounded, “The current age range of deaths is 46 to 95 years old with a median age of 76 years old.” With the increase in deaths, he urged persons to get vaccinated. At present, 44% of the target population is fully vaccinated.
Moreover, Health and Wellness Consultant and Health Coordinator of the Eastern Caribbean Conference of the Seventh Day Adventist, Mrs. Priscilla Prevost, explained that the care of the elderly is intrinsic to the fight against Covid-19.
Nurse Prevost noted, “The global and regional statistics show that the elderly are more susceptible to contracting the virus, suffering severe illness and death.” In Dominica, five out of the six deaths are individuals over the age of seventy. She continued, “Their immune systems and hence their immune response are not as effective as when they were younger.”
According to Prevost, “Many of the elderly are more likely to have one or more of the non-communicable diseases putting them at higher risk if they contract covid-19.” She advised that all caregivers should follow the protocols including the use of protective equipments.
She concluded by stating that it is only fair that we do what we can do to protect the elderly at all costs.
