National Epidemiologist, Dr. Shaluddin Ahmed confirmed that COVID-19 cases on island are rising. He said that 2 additional cases have been identified from the cluster of cases in Mahaut/Jimmit bringing the total number of cases from the area to 21. Contact tracing has identified 239 individuals. 20 of whom tested positive.

Ahmed said that the 4 other positive cases were  imported. The individuals were taken to the quarantine facility on arrival. All primary contacts were negative.

Further, Ahmed said, “Our community testing is ongoing and we have completed four of the seven health districts. A total of 80 random individuals were tested. Presently all tests are negative”.

Ahmed said that there is no ever of mass exposure to COVID-19 and community transmission is very unlikely.

The health team is expected to return to the hotspot to test the most vulnerable including nursing home residents and health workers. All are asked to cooperate with the health team who will continue community testing.