Dominica: PM rules out COVID-19 lockdowns
Coronavirus infections on Dominica may have spiked in recent weeks but that will not force the government to implement lockdown measures similar to what occurred last year.
Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit announced the development last evening during his weekly television program.
“There is really no need to go to any lockdown stage,” Skerrit stated.
“I believe what we need to do as Dominicans is to practice the basics. Washing our hands, wearing our masks, and avoiding crowds. If you don’t have to go somewhere, don’t go.”
Keeping the economy open is a priority for Skerrit as he noted businesses and regular Dominicans have taken a severe hit from COVID-19.
As of January 14, active COVID-19 infections on the island is around 647.
Skerrit said his government anticipated the spike in infections following Christmas and New Year events.
The prime minister has encouraged Dominicans to get vaccinated against the virus since it will put them in a better position if and when they become infected.
Over 28,700 Dominicans are fully vaccinated against COVID-19.
As more countries and territories across the Caribbean are imposing vaccine mandates in some sectors, Skerrit said his government will not be imposing one at this time.
But he noted: “I do not know what the future holds in this regard.”
Skerrit said he wants to avoid a situation where there is a division between the vaccinated and unvaccinated in society.
Since April 2021, Dominica has had vaccines available for its citizens over 18 years old.
“It is left to us to decide as citizens what do we want. We cannot want things to get back to normal as citizens and at the same time, we are not prepared to take one of the most important actions that can bring comfort to the mind. That is vaccinations,” the prime minister said.
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