Anguilla on Lockdown Once Again
Premier of Anguilla and Minister of Health, Hon. Dr. Ellis L. Webster reported at a press conference held at 3:00 pm on April 23rd, 2021 that a total of 28 persons linked to the cluster of reported COVID-19 cases identified on April 21st have tested positive out of the total of 128 persons tested.
The positive persons consist of 25 adults and 3 children, including a 7-month-old infant who has been hospitalized. "No other persons have been hospitalized," said Premier Webster, "although several are symptomatic showing signs of fever, cough, and flu-like symptoms". According to Premier Webster, all cases are in isolation and the settings where the exposure took place have been identified and contact tracing is ongoing.
It is suspected that the virus was introduced through illegal entry into the country. Persons who suspect they may have been exposed are urged to contact the COVID-19 hotlines before reported to any health facility or the Ministry to safeguard others.
Premier Ellis Webster continues to urge persons to get vaccinated. According to him, “vaccination against this virus is our best tool to protect our population, achieve immunity, and place the island under sound development footing going forward”.
Anguilla has once again adopted strict COVID-19 measures in the form of a 14-day mandated lockdown, to contain any further spread of the virus:
- All persons, other than those providing essential services will be required to stay at home. Persons are only allowed to leave their residence only to seek medical care including vaccinations, to buy food, or fuel including banking services.
- Non-essential workplaces will close.
- All public gatherings are prohibited. This includes the closure of churches, schools, nightclubs, and bars.
- Restaurants and other food establishments are restricted to takeout services only. When customers are collecting food, they should practice safe social distancing.
- Mandatory social distancing measures will be reintroduced in spaces allowed to remain open, including capacity limits, and the wearing of masks in indoor public spaces. Per regulations, the wearing of masks is now mandatory.
- Closure of ports to all incoming passengers with outgoing movements permitted.
- Restriction of visitors to residential facilities such as elderly care homes, prisons, etc.
Anguilla’s Premier stated that the measures are subject to change based on how the situation evolves. He also urged persons who have been vaccinated and are experiencing symptoms of side effects to report the incident to the COVID-19 hotline at 264-235-4357. Prior to this outbreak, Anguilla has been the closest Caribbean island to attaining heard immunity.
Liz Myke
Reporter
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